Kristen Stewart gives a career-best performance in Pablo Larraín’s 2021 drama “Spencer.” The words “a fable from a true tragedy” included at the start recognise that the film depicts real people in fictitious events, and is not a faithful retelling of those three fateful days during the 1991 Christmas period. The film is the sophomore feature in Larraín’s biopic trilogy; it follows on from the critically acclaimed “Jackie” that followed Jackie Kennedy through the aftermath of JFK’s assassination.
Kristen Stewart stars in the titular role, taking on the mantle of the beloved Princess Diana, or The People’s Princess, as she was more affectionately known. The “Twilight” star gives a captivating performance that pretty much guarantees her a ‘Best Actress’ nomination at the 94th Oscars. Starring alongside Stewart is a cast that includes Oscar nominated Sally Hawkins and Cannes ‘Best Actor’ winner Timothy Spall. For her few scenes, Hawkins gives a great performance as Diana’s royal dresser, pulled away when Diana needs her most. Despite being a film about Princess Diana, Spall’s and Hawkins’ characters are not based on people in Diana’s life. Instead, their characters are fictionalised and draw inspiration from the people around the Princess.
“Portrait of a Lady on Fire” cinematographer Claire Mathon works with Larraín to provide “Spencer” with mesmerising, up close visuals that convey to viewers the claustrophobia Diana felt from both the Monarchy and the public. The smooth camerawork makes viewers feel they’re part of the press, following Diana through the hallways of Sandringham House. The duality of Mathon’s cinematography allows audiences to feel they’re watching Diana but also seeing things from the Princess’ perspective.
“Phantom Thread” composer Jonny Greenwood creates a score that compliments the soft, smooth visuals. “Spencer” isn’t the only awards contender Greenwood has added his touch to; the Oscar nominee also worked on two songs for Jane Campion’s “The Power of the Dog”—an eerie Western whose sinister plot and rustic visuals make it a complete 180 from “Spencer.”
Despite the film being a work of fiction, Larraín depicts experiences and events the Princess did go through; this includes her battle with eating disorders, and the breakdown of her marriage to Prince Charles, among other things. The Director includes hallucinations of former Queen Anne Boleyn to refer to her relation to Diana; however, this acts to ground the film as both fact and fiction. Believe it or not, both women went through surprisingly similar experiences: both clashed with the royal establishment and both women seemingly predicted their own deaths. “Spencer” takes artistic license to the late Princess’ life, giving the film a happy ending in which Diana takes Harry and William (played in this film by Freddie Spry and Jack Nielen) to a fast-food drive thru as she slips away from the suffocating Monarchy.
Acclaimed Director Pablo Larraín mixes enthralling visuals with a knockout performance from Kristen Stewart to bring audiences a unique look at the late Princess’ life as she struggles against the confinements of the royal family. “Spencer” is arguably one of 2021’s best films; it’s tense atmosphere and soft visuals draws viewers in, keeping them thoroughly entertained across the 117-minute runtime.
“Spencer” is currently only available to watch in theaters.
