Princes of the Palace

Subtitled “The House of Windsor's Royal Princes,” this documentary combines archival footage with comments from biographers, royal correspondents, broadcasters, and imperial insiders in a dude-centric look at contemporary HRH's (although the Queen's sons Edward and Andrew are notably absent). The most thorough attention is paid here to gruff patriarch Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth's famously un-politically correct husband, touching on interesting trivia (Philip was born on a kitchen table!), the Prince's WWII service career, and his attraction to technology and all things alpha male, which in turn impressed Lilibet (his bossing of the Queen is mentioned, with late veteran journalist John A. Mizzi noting, “I shouldn't say this, perhaps…I've heard him swear at her.”). The segment on Prince Charles is actually a bit sad: quarantined as a newborn from his mother after she contracted measles, in later years they would greet each other by handshake rather than hug. Charles hated being sent away to school, enjoyed some fun as a bachelor, but endured many stressful years with Diana, who bore two sons, William and Harry. The younger Windsors and their comparatively secure and loving childhoods, military service, and charity work add an upbeat finale to the program, especially with Prince William's marriage to Kate Middleton and the birth of new heir George. Sure to appeal to Anglophiles, this is recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)