Oh! to be serenaded by a string quartet whilst indulging in repulsive green pudding? soup? Jell-o?
The library brings yet another academy neglected film, Spencer, the fictitious story of a royal Christmas.
Shot in 16 and 35mm formats, a seamless move for this story, this movie immediately has your eyes mystified. Simply the shot of six corgis spilling out of the royal car was enough to make me stop and make a note (AND golden retrievers, gotta keep watching, though). The pans of her just strutting, giving everything, and a whole lot of them, too. Popping colors, hazy yet vibrant, giving us as the viewer an experience of a somewhat smoky dream.
But when that fog lifts, it grabs you through the screen with a grip like no other. “A fable from a true tragedy” INDEED. You wouldn’t expect this cute little production company as SHOEBOX FILMS to make such a thriller out of this beauty of a narrative?
If you like a WHOLE lot of dialogue, a good conversation betwixt two, you’ll be with this for the long run. No fretting, though, because the third act really pops up at you for the ones who want some action.
My personal favorite were the nuances embedded in switching consistently to the kitchen, the brigade and their attachment to Diana’s character as a whole. The people she truly favored are beautifully portrayed, ESPECIALLY MAGGIE! Just stay for their final moments together. Just stay.
I have a grievance. Not even a hint of costume design recognition from the academy, and these outfits are to DIE for. Snub shame, we know your name.
All in all, she exhales ruefully…and then she does it all.
May the wild horses never be tamed.
Love, shocks, and laughter, this story is for you.