Actress Kristen Stewart's portrayal of Princess Diana wows Venice Film Festival

Kristen Stewart drew critical acclaim for her intense performance, including a posh British accent, with the Daily Mail calling her 'spectacular'. Photo: AP

US actress Kristen Stewart's interpretation of Princess Diana in Spencer got a warm reception at the Venice Film Festival, where it premiered on Friday (Sept 3), with some critics already tipping her as an Oscar favourite.

Chilean director Pablo Larrain follows a transformative Stewart as the troubled princess reluctantly joining the royals for a three-day Christmas gathering at Sandringham House as her marriage to Prince Charles breaks down.