Royal Children (1961)

Royal Children (1961) poster

Even the most devout monarchist may feel uncomfortable watching this film - hindsight makes this a rather poignant experience. Although clearly intended as a hymn to royal life, with a panting narration describing the bliss Charles, Anne and Andrew are experiencing (the film was made three years before the birth of Edward), the images tell a different story - only a couple of shots feature the children smiling, while the first glimpse of Andrew as a baby, a spotlight shining on his face as photographers snap away, is a faintly sinister symbol of the royals’ lack of privacy from birth. The knowledge that a future of divorce and tabloid scandal would tarnish these children's adult lives adds irony to this snapshot of supposed utopia.

Genre: Documentary, Family
Runtime: 18 min
Release Date:

Cast

Production: BFI, COI, Associated British-Pathé
Language: English
Original Language: en
More Films in Genre: Documentary, Family

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Royal Children about?
Even the most devout monarchist may feel uncomfortable watching this film - hindsight makes this a rather poignant experience. Although clearly intended as a hymn to royal life, with a panting narration describing the bliss Charles, Anne and Andrew are experiencing (the film was made three years before the birth of Edward), the images tell a different story - only a couple of shots feature the children smiling, while the first glimpse of Andrew as a baby, a spotlight shining on his face as photographers snap away, is a faintly sinister symbol of the royals’ lack of privacy from birth. The knowledge that a future of divorce and tabloid scandal would tarnish these children's adult lives adds irony to this snapshot of supposed utopia.
Who stars in Royal Children?
Royal Children stars Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, King Charles III of the United Kingdom, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, Anne, Princess Royal, Princess Margaret.
How long is Royal Children?
Royal Children has a runtime of 18m (18 minutes).
What genre is Royal Children?
Royal Children is a Documentary, Family film.