William and Harry: Brothers in Arms

William and Harry: Brothers in Arms is a notable documentary of 2017. It provides an in-depth look at the relationship between the two royal princes, offering insight into their bond, shaped not only by their roles within the British monarchy but also by shared experiences of hardship, trauma, duty, and commitment to their mother's legacy.

The film, which runs for approximately 60 minutes, opens with insights into the early years of princes William and Harry. It paints a picture of their childhood, showing the bond they shared during their initial years, and how their fraternal relationship was shaped by joyous and painful experiences. Viewers are given a glimpse of their life growing up in the royal household, their time in school, and their initiation into the world of royal duties.

As the sons of the two most prominent figures of the British monarchy – Prince Charles and Princess Diana – the film sketches out a dynamic image of their upbringing. It delicately shows how the princes navigated the dual pressures of growing up in the public eye, while handling the delicate dynamics and trials of their parents' highly publicized relationship.

The death of Princess Diana is displayed as a shared trauma that profoundly impacts the relationship between the brothers. From shared grief, the two princes found a way to forge a brotherly bond like none other. This depiction is done without sensationalism, applying a tender treatment that gives full respect to their personal bereavement. It is here that the audience can truly appreciate the depth of their bond, as they relied on each other for comfort and support at a notably challenging moment.

As the documentary progresses into their adulthood, it details the important turning points in their lives, such as their military service, university life, and the establishment of their individual family lives. William's role as the future king and Harry's decision to balance royal duties with his passion for military service and charity work are explored in-depth. Their distinct paths indicate the direction each brother took in handling the weighty legacy left by their lineage and their beloved mother.

Central to the narrative is how their brotherly bond transcends their royal duties. In countless public appearances, the close relationship between William and Harry consistently shines through, which makes the documentary a poignant tale of brotherhood against the backdrop of royal duties, expectations, and life in the public eye. The documentary also conducts interviews with royal correspondents, biographers and those close to the royal family, providing an even more comprehensive picture of their story.

Moreover, one of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is how it displays Prince William and Prince Harry's commitment to creating their own legacies while honoring that of their mother. Their charitable initiatives - many echoing the passions of Princess Diana - are extensively explored in the documentary. With a specific focus on mental health and well-being, which both brothers have been vocal about, the documentary illustrates how the princes use their positions to effect change and raise awareness.

William and Harry: Brothers in Arms beautifully encapsulates the complexities of royal life and the unique fraternal bond between the two princes. It is a piece of work that explores the public and private lives of princes William and Harry, and provides a stirring narrative of brotherhood, trials, duty, and love, ultimately giving a human touch to these royal figures.

The documentary is an emotional journey that encapsulates familial bonds, and the struggles and triumphs faced by the two brothers. The intimacy the film brings to the lives of these two public figures make it engaging, allowing viewers to better understand the unique and unshakeable bond between William and Harry that has seen them through the best and worst of times.

Directed by Kent Anderson and released by ITN, William and Harry: Brothers in Arms triumphs as it celebrates the lives, actions, ideals, and brotherly bond of two public figures so often viewed through lenses of tradition and expectation. It offers an intimate glimpse into the shared world of these princes, making it an unmissable film for those with an interest in the British monarchy, the lives of Prince William and Prince Harry, or simply the unswerving bond of brotherhood.