Princess Diana, one of the most beloved and iconic figures of the 20th century, has fascinated people around the world not just for her royal status but also for her humanitarian work, personal style, and the tragic story of her life and untimely death. Her compelling narrative has inspired numerous filmmakers, resulting in a variety of films that explore different aspects of her life, including her marriage to Prince Charles, her role as a mother, her philanthropic endeavors, and her global impact. These films range from biographical dramas to documentaries, offering a multitude of perspectives on her life and legacy.
“Diana”, 2013
Director: Oliver Hirschbiegel
This biographical drama focuses on the last two years of the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. Naomi Watts stars as Diana, exploring her divorce from Prince Charles, her secret love affair with Pakistani heart surgeon Hasnat Khan, and her personal growth before her untimely death.
Starring: Naomi Watts, Naveen Andrews, Juliet Stevenson, Geraldine James, Cas Anvar, Charles Edwards, James Puddephatt, Douglas Hodge, Ilan Goodman, Prasanna Puwanarajah;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: drama, melodrama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,6;
“Diana: In Her Own Words”, 2017
Director: –
This documentary is based on secret recordings Diana made for the biographer Andrew Morton, who authored the book “Diana: Her True Story” in 1992. Through these recordings, the film offers a unique and intimate portrait of Diana's own perspective on her life, including her marriage, her public life, and her struggles.
Starring: Princess Diana;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: documentary, biography;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Diana: In Her Own Words” on the website imdb.com
“Diana”, 2013
Director: Oliver Hirschbiegel
A television biopic that predates her untimely death, starring Serena Scott Thomas as Diana. The film charts her life from her early years, her fairy-tale marriage to Prince Charles, and touches on aspects of her becoming a global icon.
Starring: Naomi Watts, Naveen Andrews, Juliet Stevenson, Geraldine James, Cas Anvar, Charles Edwards, James Puddephatt, Douglas Hodge, Ilan Goodman, Prasanna Puwanarajah;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: drama, melodrama, biography;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,6;
“The Story of Diana”, 2017
Director: Rebecca Gitlitz
A two-part television documentary that commemorates the life of Princess Diana on the 20th anniversary of her death. It features archival footage and insightful interviews with those who knew her personally, providing a comprehensive look at both her public and private life.
Starring: Jess Cagle, George Clooney, Rupert Murdoch, King Charles III, Prince Harry, Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth II, Charles Spencer, Prince William of Wales;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: documentary, biography;
Duration: 240 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “The Story of Diana” on the website imdb.com
“Diana: Last Days of a Princess”, 2007
Director: Richard Dale
This television movie combines dramatization with actual footage to recount the final weeks leading up to Diana's tragic death in 1997. The story is told through a series of flashbacks and includes accounts from those who were close to her during her last summer.
Starring: Genevieve O'Reilly, Patrick Baladi, Shaun Dooley, James Barriscale, Carlo Ferrante, Nadim Sawalha, Wilfred Benaïche, Charlie Manton, Jake Taylor Shantos, Simon Lenagan;
Production year: 2007;
Genre: documentary, drama;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 89 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,5;
More information about the film “Diana: Last Days of a Princess” on the website imdb.com
These films collectively offer a deep and multifaceted look at Princess Diana's life, struggles, and enduring influence. Her legacy continues to be a subject of great interest and admiration, making these films an essential watch for anyone looking to understand the life and times of one of the most captivating figures of the contemporary era.
In surveying the vast and emotive landscape of films about Diana, Princess of Wales, we are reminded of the deep and lasting impact she had, not just on the monarchy but on the world stage. Through the lens of cinema, we've journeyed through intimate portrayals, speculative narratives, and heart-wrenching documentaries that collectively attempt to piece together the enigma of Diana's life, her humanitarian works, personal struggles, and the global mourning at her untimely death. While each film contributes a unique perspective, weaving together threads of truth, fiction, and interpretation, the collective cinematic oeuvre enriches our understanding of Diana’s multifaceted legacy. It serves as a testament to her enduring influence, her timeless charm, and the unquenchable curiosity and affection that people worldwide continue to hold for the “People's Princess.” Like the diverse facets of a gem, these films reflect varying shades of Diana’s life, reminding us of her humanity, her efforts to change the world for the better, and the indelible mark she left on history.
