Queen 'nearly abdicated', according to film

British monarch Queen Elizabeth II nearly abdicated following the fatal 1997 car crash which claimed the life of Princess Diana, according to a new movie.

Upcoming film The Queen, which stars Helen Mirren as the ruler, depicts her turmoil following Diana's tragic death in Paris.

In the movie Queen Elizabeth is upset by the British public's angry reaction to the royal family.

One scene shows her talking to her late mother saying: "When you no longer understand your people, maybe it's time to hand over to the next generation."

However, the Queen Mother tells her daughter not to listen to "that silly Mr Blair with his Cheshire Cat grin".

Film-makers insist the scene is accurate and is based on extensive research.