Media Corner: a Powerful and Moving Video Statement from the Princess of Wales
Tales from the Media - An insightful look at what’s capturing our attention from Connect’s Ex BBC Newsreader and Presenter, Rebekah James.
In this month’s tales from the media we take a look at the incredibly moving and powerful video that the royal household released to announce the end of the Princess of Wales’ Chemotherapy treatment. Instead of the usual press release or statement delivered to the camera as is tradition, we received a personal video that takes a secret, private glimpse into Catherine and her family’s life post treatment.
There were no foot notes explaining that her treatment had come to an end. In stark contrast we were presented with a highly emotional stylised film shot in the beautiful Norfolk countryside. It's full of autumn colours, exquisite 70’s flowy feminine dresses with beautiful muted tones.The editing was soft and subtle where by one scene simply melts into the other.
The narration is intimate and in the first-person and we are made to feel that we experiencing Catherine and her family’s journey. The movie which was shot by Will Warr was planned meticulously and by the change of outfits one would have imagined that this would have been a multi day shoot. The fact that this is a world away from how the royal household usually deals with such press releases shows us that Catherine and her family are clearly very aware of how celebrities and prominent public figures use the language of social media to deliver their message rather than a conventional interview.
The moving music, beautiful photography allows the message to drive forward without the opportunity of questions. Catherine is seen with her family on the beach, playing board games with her parents and hugging her children and husband whilst having picnics and cherishing family time. They are portrayed as an ordinary family enjoying the beauty and healing power of the outdoors and nature after what has clearly been a challenging time. We can relate to this family.
Whilst the images are incredibly moving, Catherine’s narration which is a voice over shows her sense of hope and that she is quietly optimistic. She talks about how fragile life is and clearly touches those who are in similar positions and fighting their own cancer battles.
The movie finishes with what almost sounds like a prayer. “To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey - I remain with you side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that shine bright.”
This was nothing short of ground breaking for royalty. It highlights how acutely aware the royal family is of moving with the times when it comes to dealing with the press. A Hollywood like stylised movie in a Norfolk setting delivered an incredibly emotional message.
