The opening episode of the sixth and final season of Netflix's "The Crown" plunges viewers into the tumultuous final days of Princess Diana's life, setting a somber tone for what is to come. Titled "Persona Non Grata," the episode is a haunting prelude to the tragedy that unfolded in the summer of 1997, and it masterfully weaves together the personal struggles of Diana with the broader narrative of the British royal family's dynamics.
The episode begins with a chilling cold open, depicting a random Parisian's late-night walk with his dog, interrupted by the high-speed chase that would lead to Diana's untimely death. The sound of screeching tires and the subsequent crash, followed by the emergency call, sets the stage for a season that promises to explore the aftermath of this devastating event.
As the title card "Eight Weeks Earlier" appears, we are reminded of the brief duration of Diana and Dodi Fayed's relationship. The episode then shifts to Diana's loneliness and restlessness post-divorce, as she seeks purpose and public service opportunities, only to be met with indifference by Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen's stance is clear: one cannot be "half in" when it comes to the royal family, a sentiment that echoes the rigidity of the institution and its expectations.
Diana's desperation to escape the country during Prince Charles's 50th birthday celebration for Camilla Parker Bowles is palpable. Her friend Mohamed Al-Fayed, or "Mou Mou," provides a much-needed distraction in the form of a luxurious holiday in the South of France. However, the episode also sets the stage for Mohamed to be portrayed as a calculating figure, using his son Dodi's relationship with Diana to elevate his own social standing.
Dodi's own actions are not without blame, as he is still engaged to American model Kelly Fisher, whom his father dismisses as a gold digger. Dodi's obedience to his father's orders to court Diana, despite his upcoming wedding, adds a layer of complexity to his character and the unfolding drama.
Back in England, Charles's struggles with his own version of the blues are evident. The royal family's reluctance to attend his birthday party for Camilla highlights the continued disapproval of their relationship by Queen Elizabeth. The Queen's cold parenting style and its lasting impact on her children are underscored in a scene where Charles attempts to connect with his mother, only to be sidelined for her corgis.
The episode also explores the Queen's slow acceptance of change, as she grapples with the evolving attitudes towards divorce and the public's perception of the royal family. The conversation between the Queen and Prince Philip, where he voices his outdated views on Camilla, contrasts with the Queen's more progressive stance, reflecting the internal conflict within the royal family.
In Saint-Tropez, the drama intensifies as Dodi's fiancée Kelly arrives, only to be kept hidden by Mohamed. Dodi's conflicted feelings are evident as he navigates his father's expectations and his growing connection with Diana. The episode culminates in a poignant scene aboard Mohamed's yacht, where Diana and Dodi bond over their shared experiences with difficult fathers.
As Diana and her sons prepare to leave for Scotland, the red flags are evident. Diana's revelation of her "persona non grata" status at Balmoral Castle and Dodi's inability to acknowledge his impending marriage foreshadow the tragic events to come. Mohamed's smug smile as he watches the departure is a chilling reminder of the manipulative forces at play.
The episode ends with Diana's return to Kensington Palace, where she is greeted by lavish gifts from Dodi and an invitation to Paris. Despite the foreknowledge of the story's tragic conclusion, the episode's detailed narrative and character development make it impossible not to feel a sense of urgency and concern for Diana's well-being.
"Persona Non Grata" is a powerful start to the final season of "The Crown," offering a nuanced portrayal of Princess Diana's final days and the complex web of relationships that surrounded her. It is a testament to the show's ability to captivate audiences with a blend of historical accuracy and creative storytelling, leaving them eager for the next installment in this royal saga.