Diana Queen of Hearts

Rating NR Formats DVD Genre biography Starring Princess Diana, Richard Attenborough, Katharine Graham, Hillary Rodham Clinton Directed by Jenny De Yong Publisher Genius Products

Don't we all know exactly where we were when we heard the tragic news that Princess Diana died? Close personal friend of Diana's, Lord Richard Attenborough, narrates us through her life as a tribute to her legacy. The movie consists of a series of photographs and actual footage of Princess Diana with many stories from her close friends.

The tragedy of Princess Diana's life cut short is still difficult for people to come to terms with today. It's difficult to reconcile the death of such a beautiful, profound, and life-changing woman. The movie takes us through her childhood, where we learn of her playful, mischievous side from her nanny and teachers. Many people may never have known that the ultra-glamorous Diana was actually completely disinterested in clothes and dressing up throughout childhood up until she got married. The headmistress from West Heath School describes Diana as always the most helpful, caring, and domestic student.

Diana moved to London and became a "Sloane ranger" in her teens. A Sloane ranger's goal was to meet people, be in the heart of London's elite social scene, and get married. Diana's connections to the royal family landed her a position next to Prince Charles at a polo game when she was 19 and he was 31, and we know what happened from there. Young Diana absolutely adored Charles and was married when she was 19.

Diana won the hearts of people all over the world. She had a vulnerable side to her. She had problems. And guess what? So do we. That ability for people to see her as a person made the public know her, understand her, and become fascinated with her. Hearing the personal stories from her close friends, make-up artist and hair stylist were both funny and endearing.

The movie progresses, touching on her struggle with eating disorders and plunge into her royal duty: motherhood. Motherhood was just the thing Diana needed to give her the confidence to change some of the ancient, royal protocols. Diana's fairy tale life began to diminish with problems in her marriage.

The most touching parts of the film are the personal testimonies of sick and injured people that Diana helped. Diana was different and special. While the royal family visited parts of the world to fulfill their philanthropic duty, Diana felt she needed to do more. Healing begins with human touch and compassion, which were greatly instilled in Diana. She didn't believe charity was her duty, but rather it was her passion and calling.

For anyone interested in watching a touching, in depth view of Princess Diana's life, I recommend Diana Queen of Hearts. The world will never forget her special place and her amazing life, and this movie is a wonderful collection of loving memories and moving stories.