Produced shortly after Princess Diana's tragic and untimely death in 1997, this 1998 made-for-TV documentary isn't just a love letter to “the people's princess,” but practically advocates for her deification. Narrated by her close friend Sir Richard Attenborough, and chock full of talking-head reminiscences delivered by family, friends, and world leaders, Diana: Queen of Hearts celebrates the late Princess of Wales, concentrating on her good works, which included tireless efforts to alleviate hunger and poverty, as well as fighting to have dangerous land mines removed. Written and directed by Jenny De Yong, the documentary is adulatory practically from first frame to last, which is understandable, given that it was produced so close to Diana's death, but 10 years later it's all but impossible to watch this without being reminded of some of the less flattering aspects of Diana's life that have come to light during the intervening years. Perhaps it's time to let the myth of this “fairy-tale princess” pass into legend, or at the very least wait for a more dispassionate up-to-date biography. Optional. Aud: P. (E. Hulse)
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