Spencer
A Fable Turned Real Tragedy
Pablo Larraín’s disturbing masterpiece offers a deeply intimate and psychological thriller-esque character study into the mind of Diana Spencer, as tremendously portrayed by Kristen Stuart in a landmark performance unlike any other portrayal of the late princess. From the foreboding offset the audience are instantly are of to the type of movie they’re about to witness; no doubt in large part to Jonny Greenwood’s expertly weaved symphony of piercing strings and haunting steel which punctuate every beautifully composed frame. The film makes extensive use of claustrophobically close shots into the mind of Diana as we become entrenched in a distressing portrait of a constrained soul yearning for autonomy, contrasting the distant and almost lifeless portraits of the other perfectly cast soulless royals who Diana is entrapped with, caged in by the ever present fog which similarly clouds her mind. Spencer’s intricately minimalist writing, unforgettable performances and thought-provoking imagery make for one of the greatest films of the year which I’m sure will be snubbed from many deserving awards.