Across decades, Queen Elizabeth II has inspired a wide range of audiovisual explorations. From documentary studies to dramatic interpretations, critics and audiences alike have returned to her reign as a lens on modern history. This guide curates a selection of streaming options that illuminate the life of the recently departed monarch, offering a mix of nonfiction, biographical drama, and interpretation to broaden understanding and spark conversation at gatherings.
‘Queen (Queen)’ (2006)
Helena Mirren delivers a landmark portrayal of Elizabeth II, capturing the tense moments following Diana’s passing and the delicate negotiations with political leadership about how to address the royal couple publicly. The film, brought to life by director Stephen Frears and a script crafted by Peter Morgan, builds on Morgan’s prior stage work where Mirren embodied Elizabeth during extended exchanges with prime ministers. Viewers can access this title on streaming platforms including HBO Max, Movistar Plus+, RTVE Play, and acontra+.
‘The King’s Speech’ (2010)
Five years after a previous royal portrayal, the director explores the relationship between George VI and his royal duties, focusing on a speech impediment overcome with the help of a dedicated speech therapist. The film features Colin Firth in a central role and actor Geoffrey Rush providing memorable mentorship. The production weaves personal struggle with public performance, and offers a nuanced look at leadership under pressure. It is available for streaming on Prime Video, Disney+, Film, and Movistar Plus+.
‘Elizabeth II: A Glorious Life’ (2013)
This documentary focus makes clear its intent: a thorough tribute to the queen, with emphasis on World War II and the long arc of her public service. The program leverages archival footage in high definition and includes insights from scholars and commentators such as Hugo Vickers, Camilla Tominey, and historian Robert Lacey. The director reorients documentary storytelling toward a broader portrait of cultural and political change. It streams on Netflix.
‘The Crown’ (2016-)
Conceived from the same writer, Peter Morgan, as a companion piece to his theater work, this acclaimed series dramatizes the private and public tensions that accompanied Elizabeth II’s reign. The show surveys the moral and political consequences of major events, offering a layered account of decisions within the royal family. The series presents a careful balance between historical reconstruction and character study, with Morgan highlighting missteps and moments of nuance that defined an era. It is available for streaming on Netflix.
‘Royal House of Windsor’ (2017)
For viewers choosing a single comprehensive overview, this six-episode documentary series stands out. Exclusively on Netflix until late September, it traces roughly a century of Windsor history from the dawn of the First World War to the eventual passing of Diana. With archival material sourced from international collections and the Queen’s own family records, the documentary reveals the strategies that sustained the monarchy through changing times. The documentary is accessible on Netflix.