10 Compelling Documentaries on the Death of Princess Diana

A Must-Watch List

Princess Diana's life and untimely death have captivated the world for decades, spawning numerous documentaries that explore various aspects of her story. These films offer an intimate look at her life, the events leading up to her tragic accident, and the aftermath that left an indelible mark on global history.

For those seeking to understand the complex narrative surrounding her death, these documentaries provide essential insights and perspectives. From her struggles within the royal family to the public's reaction after her passing, these films serve as a comprehensive guide to one of the most compelling stories of the 20th century.

1) Diana: In Her Own Words (2017)

"Diana: In Her Own Words" offers an intimate glimpse into the life of Princess Diana. The documentary is built around a series of recordings she made for the journalist Andrew Morton. These recordings were used for his 1992 biography, "Diana: Her True Story."

The film features Princess Diana narrating her own experiences, shedding light on her marriage, the royal family, and her personal struggles. Her candid reflections provide a unique perspective that distinguishes this documentary from others.

Interspersed with archival footage, the film brings to life her story in a visual and engaging manner. It was first broadcast on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom and later on the National Geographic Channel, receiving positive reviews for its honesty and depth.

For more information, visit the IMDb page of the film.

2) The Story of Diana

The Story of Diana (2017) offers a detailed exploration of Princess Diana's life through a two-part documentary produced by ABC News and People magazine. This production provides an in-depth look at both her public and private life, giving viewers a broad picture of Diana's complex world.

This documentary features interviews with people who knew Diana best, including family members, friends, and royal insiders. Their testimonials add depth and authenticity, painting a humanizing portrait of the late princess.

The film addresses major events in Diana's life, from her engagement to Prince Charles to her tragic death in 1997. It delves into her struggles with the press, her charity work, and her role as a mother to Princes William and Harry.

The use of archival footage and photographs ensures that key moments are vividly conveyed, allowing viewers to relive these historical instances. This approach helps to contextualize Diana’s impact on the royal family and the world.

By presenting a balanced and comprehensive account, The Story of Diana succeeds in highlighting the various facets of her personality and legacy.

For more information, visit IMDB.

3) Diana: 7 Days That Shook the World (2017)

"Diana: 7 Days That Shook the World" offers a detailed look at the week following Princess Diana's tragic death in 1997. This documentary examines the intense media scrutiny and public mourning that ensued.

The film includes exclusive interviews with Diana's staff, government advisors, journalists, and the general public. These firsthand accounts provide a unique perspective on the emotional and societal impact of her passing.

Narratives cover the immediate reactions of the Royal Family and the British public's response. It also explores the broader political implications and the press's role during this turbulent period.

Available for viewing on various platforms, this documentary is a comprehensive resource for understanding the aftermath of Diana's death.

For more details, visit IMDb.

4) The Murder of Princess Diana

"The Murder of Princess Diana" (2007) is a documentary that delves into the controversial and widely debated theories surrounding the tragic death of Princess Diana.

This documentary examines various claims and suspicions that her death was not a mere accident but the result of a deliberate act.

The film features interviews with experts, investigators, and close associates who discuss the evidence and theories suggesting foul play.

Viewers are guided through the night of the accident in Paris, exploring the sequence of events leading to the fatal car crash.

The documentary aims to shed light on the inconsistencies and unanswered questions that have fueled conspiracy theories over the years.

Investigative techniques and forensic analysis are presented to support claims of potential orchestrated events. The film seeks to present a balanced view, allowing audiences to form their own opinions.

More information can be found on IMDB

5) Unlawful Killing (2011)

"Unlawful Killing" is a British documentary directed by Keith Allen, focusing on the deaths of Diana, Princess of Wales, and Dodi Fayed on August 31, 1997. The film was financed by Dodi's father, Mohamed Al-Fayed, and is known for its controversial exploration of the circumstances surrounding the fatal car crash.

The documentary was produced at a reported cost of £2.5 million and had a single screening during the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. It garnered attention for its provocative content and the graphic nature of some of its footage, including photos of a dying Princess Diana.

The film scrutinizes the official inquest and investigates various aspects of the accident, raising questions about potential cover-ups and conspiracies. While it intends to provide a thorough examination, it has faced criticism for its speculative approach and reliance on conspiracy theories.

"Unlawful Killing" is part of a broader conversation and a continuing public fascination with the tragic deaths of prominent figures like Princess Diana. For more information, you can visit the Wikipedia page.

6) Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy (2017)

Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy is a poignant documentary that aired in 2017. Directed by Ashley Gething, it features Prince William and Prince Harry sharing personal memories of their mother, Princess Diana.

This documentary was commissioned to mark the 20th anniversary of Diana's death. It presents a touching and more intimate portrayal of Diana, showcasing not only her public life but also her private moments as a mother.

The film was first broadcast in the United Kingdom by ITV and in the United States by HBO. It also aired on various networks worldwide, ensuring that Diana's story reached a global audience.

The inclusion of interviews with prominent figures like Kofi Annan and Naomi Campbell adds depth to the narrative. These personal accounts provide unique perspectives on Diana's charitable work and her impact on people around the world.

For more information, visit IMDb.

7) The Queen and Diana

"The Queen" (2006) is a feature film directed by Stephen Frears. It explores the tumultuous aftermath of Princess Diana’s tragic death, focusing on the royal family's response.

The film features Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II. Mirren's portrayal earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

Key moments include the Queen's initial reluctance to make a public statement and the eventual shift towards acknowledging the nation’s grief.

"The Queen" provides insight into the evolving dynamics within the royal family and their interaction with public sentiment following Diana's death.

For more information on "The Queen" (2006), visit IMDb.

8) Diana, 1961-1997: A Nation's Farewell

Released in 1997, "Diana, 1961-1997: A Nation's Farewell" is a touching documentary capturing the world's reaction to Princess Diana's tragic death. It explores the global mourning and the unprecedented public display of grief.

The film provides a detailed account of the events surrounding Diana's funeral. It highlights the deep national and international sorrow felt by millions as they bid farewell to the "People's Princess."

The service, filled with poignant moments, is extensively covered. Viewers can witness how Diana's life and legacy were honored through moving speeches and heartfelt tributes. Despite the sorrow, there were also notes of celebration of her life and humanitarian efforts.

This documentary is particularly significant as it offers an unfiltered look at the public's raw emotions during one of the most sorrowful times in modern British history. It effectively captures the collective soul of the nation grieving a beloved figure.

Diana, 1961-1997: A Nation's Farewell (1997) - IMDb

9) Diana: The People's Princess (2017)

"Diana: The People's Princess" offers a profound exploration of Princess Diana's life, capturing the essence of her widespread appeal and impact.

The film dives into key moments that endeared Diana to the public, showcasing her humanitarian efforts and candid moments, which made her relatable to millions.

This documentary stands out for its comprehensive portrayal, incorporating interviews and archival footage to recount Diana's journey from a shy kindergarten teacher to a global icon.

It poignantly reflects on her struggles within the royal family and her tragic death, providing insight into why she remains an enduring figure in the public's hearts.

More information about "Diana: The People's Princess" can be found on IMDb.

10) Princess Diana: Tragedy or Treason? (2017)

"Princess Diana: Tragedy or Treason?" delves into the life and untimely death of Diana, Princess of Wales. This documentary, released in 2017, features contributions from various figures, including Amber Neukum and Ashley Cameron.

The film reflects on Diana's impact on the world and explores the conspiracy theories that emerged after her death. Opinions are divided, with some viewers emphasizing the tragic elements and others considering more controversial aspects.

It includes interviews and footage from the weeks and days leading to the fatal car accident in Paris. The documentary examines the intense media scrutiny Diana endured and the implications for her privacy.

Providing a balanced view, it caters to both those interested in her humanitarian legacy and those captivated by the mystery surrounding her death.

For more details, visit the IMDb page.

The Life of Princess Diana

Princess Diana, known as the "People's Princess," lived a life marked by her noble lineage, tumultuous marriage, and profound humanitarian efforts. Her story continues to captivate many through her legacy and the impact she made on society.

Early Life and Background

Diana Frances Spencer was born on July 1, 1961, into British nobility. She was the fourth of five children of John Spencer, Viscount Althorp, and Frances Roche. Diana spent her early years at Park House, located on the Sandringham estate. Her parents' divorce when she was seven had a significant impact on her childhood.

She attended various boarding schools, including Riddlesworth Hall and West Heath. Despite struggling academically, Diana excelled in sports and social events. In her late teens, she moved to London, where she worked various jobs such as a nursery teacher's assistant, before she became engaged to Prince Charles in 1981.

Marriage to Prince Charles

Diana married Charles, Prince of Wales, on July 29, 1981, in a ceremony that captivated the world. The wedding was held at St. Paul's Cathedral and watched by millions globally. Diana became Princess of Wales upon her marriage and instantly a global icon. The marriage produced two sons, Prince William, born in 1982, and Prince Harry, born in 1984.

Despite the public fairy tale, their marriage was fraught with difficulties, including infidelity and intense media scrutiny. The couple publicly separated in 1992 and subsequently divorced in 1996. The media spotlight continued to follow Diana, highlighting both her struggles and her resilience.

Humanitarian Work and Public Persona

Beyond the palace walls, Diana was deeply committed to humanitarian causes. She championed the fight against landmines, famously walking through a minefield in Angola in 1997. Diana also brought global attention to the AIDS epidemic, breaking taboos by interacting with patients without fear.

Her compassionate approach and willingness to use her status for advocacy made her an influential figure in various campaigns. Programs focusing on homelessness, leprosy, and mental health further demonstrated her dedication. Diana's empathy and charisma endeared her to many, securing her legacy as a humanitarian icon.

The Tragic Car Accident

The death of Princess Diana in a car accident on August 31, 1997, shocked the world. Key details include the circumstances leading up to the crash and the immediate response from emergency services.

The Events Leading Up To the Crash

On the night of August 30, 1997, Princess Diana and her companion, Dodi Fayed, were in Paris. After dining at the Ritz Hotel, they attempted to evade paparazzi by taking a different route back to Fayed’s apartment.

Their driver, Henri Paul, who was the deputy head of security at the Ritz, was found to have exceeded the speed limit. Eyewitness accounts and investigations later confirmed that Paul had a high blood alcohol level and was driving erratically. The Mercedes-Benz carrying Diana, Fayed, and Paul entered the Pont de l'Alma tunnel at high speed and subsequently collided with a pillar.

Immediate Aftermath and Response

The crash occurred shortly after midnight. Within minutes, emergency responders arrived on the scene. Dr. Frederic Mailliez happened to be driving through the tunnel and was one of the first to provide aid, initially not realizing the identity of the victims.

Henri Paul and Dodi Fayed were pronounced dead at the scene. Princess Diana was still alive, albeit in critical condition. She was extracted from the wreckage and transported to the Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital. Despite extensive medical efforts, Diana succumbed to her injuries in the early hours of August 31, 1997.

The immediate response to the incident highlighted the rapid and dedicated action of the emergency services but also raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Conspiracy Theories and Investigations

The death of Princess Diana has remained a topic of significant public interest, spawning various investigations and a host of conspiracy theories. This section delves into the initial investigations and explores some of the most popular conspiracy theories surrounding her death.

Initial Investigations and Findings

Following Princess Diana's death in a Paris car crash on August 31, 1997, both French and British authorities conducted thorough investigations.

The French police first led the investigation, concluding that the crash was caused by the driver, Henri Paul, being under the influence of alcohol and driving at high speed while evading paparazzi.

In 2004, Britain launched Operation Paget, led by Commissioner John Stevens of the Metropolitan Police. This investigation re-examined evidence and testimonies, ultimately supporting the original French findings.

Operation Paget's 2006 report attributed the accident to reckless behavior by Paul and the aggressive pursuit by paparazzi. No evidence of foul play or conspiracy was found, despite widespread speculation.

Popular Conspiracy Theories

Numerous conspiracy theories have emerged, questioning the official accounts of Diana’s death.

Some theorists suggest involvement by the British Royal Family, speculating that they orchestrated the crash to prevent Diana from marrying Dodi Fayed or to silence her.

Another popular theory implicates MI6, alleging that British intelligence executed a planned operation. Proponents often cite the high-speed crash and the presence of paparazzi as signs of a coordinated effort.

Additionally, there are claims of a cover-up, with theorists pointing to alleged inconsistencies in witness testimonies and the speed of the official investigations. Despite these theories, no credible evidence substantiates these claims.