Why Is There A Character for Anne Boleyn's Ghost In 'Spencer?'

"Spencer" was finally released in theaters worldwide on November 5, 2021. Now, fans can finally watch Kristen Stewart as Princess Diana and enjoy the heart-wrenching tale of one of the most emotional moments of the late Princess's life and marriage.

As fans trooped to the theaters to watch the film, many came out with questions on certain film elements and characters.

These questions inadvertently leaked spoilers to those yet to watch the movie. While it is advisable that fans watch the movie first, it is clear that these questions need answers.

One of the questions was centered on a peculiar character-- the ghost of Anne Boleyn, the infamous wife of Late King Henry VIII. This addition certainly seems odd, but the writers and producers had a reason for infusing the character. So, read on if you want to find out their reasons and how her ghost fits into Diana's story.

Anne Boleyn was the younger sister to Mary Boleyn, who was Henry VIII's mistress before he had an affair with Anne and married her. Anne gave birth to Queen Elizabeth I and is a direct ancestor to Diana's family's Spencer line.

But it is not their blood connection that makes Anne Boleyn's ghost relevant in the film; it is the similarity of their marriage stories, especially in Diana's mind, as her mental health troubles her.

In "Spencer," a book about Anne mysteriously appears in her bedroom at the vacation home. Diana took the book as a bad omen and warning because of the tragic ending that met Anne when her husband ordered her execution following false accusations of witchcraft, incest, adultery, and conspiracy against the king.

When Diana read the story, she began to imagine that Anne's ghost would visit her, and for the rest of the movie, the ghost appeared whenever Diana was at her lowest.

This presence of the ghost became a constant reminder of what could happen to Diana if her monarch partner decides to have an affair and be with the woman he loves at all costs.

There are several parallels and connections between Diana and Anne. For example, they both experienced infidelity in their marriages, they were outspoken and strong women whose opinions and strength put them in conflict with the royal family and in the spotlight.

Per their conflicts with the royal family, the story of their marriages, and the tragic end they met, Anne and Diana became two of England's most famous royal family members.

Another unique similarity between the two late royals is that Charles also had a brief relationship with Lady Sarah McCorquodale, Diana's older sister. The film also noted the connection between the women in "Spencer."

The writers used Anne's ghost as a tool to portray Diana's deepest fears about what could happen to her if she freed herself from the marriage and family that she felt trapped in. And, in the end, the presence of the ghost was focal in Diana's decision to gain freedom.

"The Nevers" series star, Amy Manson played Anne Boleyn's ghost, and she did an amazing job. Before the film came out, Manson kept the details of her role very quiet but was not quiet about what she thought about Stewart's portrayal of the Princess.

During an interview with Good Housekeeping, she said, "I play Anne Boleyn, which is weird I know because it's 100s of years difference (between them). It is amazing, but I can't say too much about it! "It's just really unnerving how great Kristen is. She's brilliant."

Also, while speaking about the drama in general, she said, "It's definitely nothing like we've seen before- it's nothing like The Crown. It really delves into Princess Diana's mental state around a certain time in her life."

"Spencer" covered the holiday weekend that Diana spent with the royal family at the Sandringham estate.

It also focused on her emotions, mental health, and what she went through in deciding whether to leave her husband.

The film was released in November 2021 and has garnered positive reviews from those who have watched it, including film critics. Many also praised Stewart's acting and the in-depth expression of the late Princess's inner turmoil.

Fans of Diana and her story can watch the movie at any theater near them, as it has not been released on any streaming service yet.