Published On: Mon, Dec 22nd, 2025
Movies | 2,054 views

‘Masterpiece’ Royal biopic with ‘sublime performance’ now streaming | Films | Entertainment

A ‘tragic’ film chronicling the life of a beloved Royal Family member is now streaming on Channel 4.

Released in 2021, Spencer explores the story of Diana, Princess of Wales, who tragically died following a car accident in 1997.

The legendary princess captivated hearts globally through her charitable works, though her marital difficulties and subsequent separation from the now-King Charles III attracted considerable public attention.

Penned by Steven Knight, the fictionalised biographical drama focuses on the Royal’s “decision” to end her marriage.

The synopsis reads: “Diana Spencer, struggling with mental health problems during her Christmas holidays with the Royal Family at their Sandringham estate in Norfolk, England, decides to end her decade-long marriage to Prince Charles,” reports the Mirror.

Renowned director Pablo Larraín helmed the picture, which subsequently earned an Academy Award nomination for lead actress Kristen Stewart.

Stewart was already a household name before taking on this part, but the portrayal swiftly became amongst her most celebrated work.

She appears alongside London-born actor Jack Farthing, who portrays Charles, alongside Stella Gonet, who depicts the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The biographical drama impressed reviewers, securing an 83% Rotten Tomatoes rating. Critic Zach Pope shared a glowing review, stating: “Kristen Stewart’s CAREER DEFINING PERFORMANCE! Haunting, claustrophobic, intimate, personal, tragic, and all around one of the most unique experiences I’ve seen all year.”

Meanwhile, a cinema-goer shared similar praise, writing: “Kristen Stewart is delivering a career best performance.

“She’s sublime here; totally disappearing into the role and giving a stunning and deeply nuanced performance. The film subverts genres and feels at times like a psychological thriller or horror film.”

Another audience member raved: “Truly a delight in watching such a masterpiece by Pablo Larraín and Kristen did a fabulous job on depicting Diana in this contextual journey of her life.”

While a third admirer praised: “Kristen Stewart delivers a mesmerizing performance that makes the film a must-watch. Her portrayal of Diana is truly remarkable, capturing the essence of a beloved icon and passionate activist who was taken from us too soon.”

Spencer is streaming for free on Channel 4