Tired of Princess Diana yet? Her character was last seen on The Crown and I thought it was well done. There's also Diana: The Musical on Broadway. Plus numerous documentaries, books, etc etc etc.
Now in Spencer, Kristen Stewart plays Diana in crisis over a Christmas weekend at Sandringham House. She is on her old home turf - literally seeing the home where she grew up, now a boarded up wreck - from the Queen's estate. She's on the "outs" with everyone (family, servants, etc) observing her, tailing her, and questioning her every mood. Her bulemia is out of control. Her marriage is an obvious mistake as she and Charles barely speak and she can see the exact gift of pearls she received on Camilla's neck at Sunday church service.
This is not a straightforward re-telling of this weekend. It's almost a stream of consciousness from Stewart, and a bit of bonkers thrown in. The woman is alone. Her only joys are her sons and as kids do, they sense her distress. The acting is great as well as Diana's walk, mannerisms, and speech. Stewart still projects a bit less fragile demeanor than that of the Diana we see from interviews. However, it's a worthy performance in an odd film. I'm glad I saw it, but it's not for everyone.
Hi Joanne - as a Brit ... I find these difficult to watch - but I know people enjoy them - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteindeed. It is a bit like a train wreck. Can I say I watched it for the acting? The story is way too sad and such a waste of a young lady's life who gave a lot.
DeleteI did watch The Crown and thought it an interesting timeline of history. Kind of a review for me having lived in the middle to later years of the series. Your review of 'the story being way too sad and such a waste of a young lady's life who gave a lot' says it all for me as well. I doubt I'll watch 'Spencer'. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I hope you and yours have a wonderful and blessed day.
ReplyDeletethanks Sue. We indeed had a lovely and tasty Thanksgiving. I am stuffed and very fortunate. I hope yours was equally as nice.
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