Flixwatcher: A Netflix Film Review Podcast

Catrin Lowe and Rich Nelson (Don’t You Want Me? podcast) return to Flixwatcher to review Rich’s choice Spencer. Spencer (2021) is directed by Pablo (Jackie) Larraín and written by Steven (Peaky Blinders) Knight and stars Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana experiencing an existential crisis (nightmare) during Christmas 1991 when she spends the holidays at Sandringham with the British royal family. The supporting cast includes Sean Harris as Darren McGrady, head chef to the royal for 15 years, Sally Hawkins as royal dresser Maggie (possibly inspired by Fay Appleby, Diana’s real-life dresser and loyal friend) and Timothy Spall as Equerry Major Alistair Gregory (an amalgamation of royal staff). It is important to note that while the film is inspired by a real-life moment in Diana’s life, it is based longtime rumours and real events, and is very much a work of fiction. Recommendability scores for Spencer reflected the ambiguous nature of some of themes and the absence of a traditional narrative. Engagement scores w