Diana (2013) Movie Review: A Glimpse into the Life of the People’s Princess
Introduction
“Diana,” directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel and starring Naomi Watts, offers a poignant portrayal of the final two years of Princess Diana’s life. Released in 2013, the film delves into Diana’s personal struggles, her humanitarian efforts, and her complicated love affair with heart surgeon Dr. Hasnat Khan. While the movie aims to shed light on the more intimate aspects of Diana’s life, it has garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
Plot Summary
“Diana” opens with the tragic and untimely death of Princess Diana in a car accident in Paris. The narrative then rewinds to two years prior, exploring her life post-divorce from Prince Charles. The film emphasizes Diana’s desire for privacy and normalcy, juxtaposed against her relentless media scrutiny. The central focus is her romantic relationship with Dr. Hasnat Khan, portrayed by Naveen Andrews, highlighting their deep connection and the challenges they faced due to her public life.
Performance and Direction
Naomi Watts delivers a nuanced performance as Princess Diana, capturing her grace, vulnerability, and determination. However, the script often falters, failing to provide the depth and complexity needed to fully flesh out such an iconic figure. Naveen Andrews brings sincerity to the role of Dr. Khan, but their on-screen chemistry sometimes feels forced.
Oliver Hirschbiegel’s direction is competent, yet the film struggles to find a consistent tone. At times, it feels more like a melodramatic romance than a biographical drama. The cinematography by Rainer Klausmann, however, is exquisite, with beautiful shots of London and other locations adding to the film’s visual appeal.
Critical Reception
“Diana” received a lukewarm response from critics. While some praised Watts’ performance and the film’s intention to humanize Diana, others criticized its lack of depth and reliance on clichéd storytelling. Rotten Tomatoes rates “Diana” at 8% based on reviews from critics, highlighting its mixed reception. Despite the criticism, fans of Princess Diana may appreciate the film’s effort to honor her memory and shed light on lesser-known aspects of her life.
Streaming Availability
As of now, “Diana” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV – Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Available for rent or purchase.
- Vudu – Available for rent or purchase.
- YouTube Movies – Available for rent or purchase.
“Diana,” these services provide convenient options to view the film from the comfort of your home.
Conclusion
“Diana” is a film that attempts to offer an intimate look at one of the most beloved figures of the 20th century. While it may not fully succeed in capturing the complexity of Princess Diana’s life and legacy, it remains a notable effort with commendable performances. For viewers intrigued by Diana’s story, the film serves as a reminder of her enduring impact and the challenges she faced as she navigated a life under the public eye.
