Where to watch Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution in Australia
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About Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution
The history of arguably the most famous shop in the world, which has been based on Brompton Road in London for more than 175 years, employs more than 6,000 people and still welcomes 15 million customers every year. This documentary tells the story of the people behind the department store, including Robin Harrod, the great-great-grandson of the store's founder, and culminates with the recent allegations against former chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed
- Year
- 2025
- Genres
- History, Documentary
- Runtime
- 60mins
- Director
- Maya Amin-Smith
- Top cast
- Richard Allinson
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution is a fascinating documentary that offers a deep dive into the legacy of one of the world's most famous shops. Directed by Maya Amin-Smith, the film artfully balances historical facts with personal anecdotes, particularly highlighting the contributions of Robin Harrod, the founder's descendant. The narrative flows seamlessly, capturing the essence of Harrods as both a retail giant and a cultural icon. The documentary does an excellent job of contextualising its rise within broader societal changes, while also addressing the controversies that have marked its recent history. The cinematography is striking, with visuals that effectively evoke the grandeur of the store. Overall, this film is a must-watch for anyone interested in retail history or British culture.
Editor Team
★★★★★3/5
Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution is an intriguing look at the famed London store, but it sometimes feels like it misses the mark. While the documentary does present a wealth of information about Harrods' history, there are moments when it feels more like a promotional piece than an objective exploration. The interviews, particularly with Robin Harrod, provide personal insight but can come off as overly nostalgic. The controversy surrounding Mohamed Al-Fayed is touched on but lacks depth, leaving viewers wanting more clarity on this aspect. The pacing is uneven, with some segments dragging while others fly by. Still, for those who have a fascination with retail history, it offers enough intriguing tidbits to make it worthwhile.
How viewers describe this
- fascinating
- informative
- nostalgic
- insightful
- critical
- engaging
- uneven
- cultural significance
- personal stories
- retail history
- visually striking
- thought-provoking
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 36 | ||
| 02 | 55 | ||
| 03 | 131 | ||
| 04 | 241 | ||
| 05 | 323 | ||
| 06 | 503 | ||
| 07 | 618 | ||
| 08 | 647 |
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Got a question about Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution?
Is Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution worth watching?
Yes, Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution is a compelling documentary that explores the rich history of one of the world's most iconic department stores. It provides insightful commentary on the societal and economic impacts of Harrods, making it both informative and engaging for viewers interested in retail history and British culture.
What is Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution really about?
Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution chronicles the storied past of the famous London department store, focusing on its founders, its evolution over the decades, and the challenges it has faced, including recent controversies surrounding its former chairman, Mohamed Al-Fayed. The film highlights the personal stories of those who have influenced the store's legacy.
Is it based on a true story?
Yes, Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution is based on real events, chronicling the history of Harrods from its inception over 175 years ago to its current status. The documentary features interviews and insights from key figures, including Robin Harrod, bringing authenticity to its narrative.
Where can I watch Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution in Australia?
Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution is available for streaming on various platforms in Australia. Check local streaming services or rental options to find where it is currently being shown.
Is Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution suitable for children?
Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution is generally suitable for older children and teenagers, as it contains historical content and discussions about business practices. However, parental discretion is advised due to some themes that may be more complex for younger viewers.
What films are similar to Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution?
If you enjoyed Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution, you might also like documentaries such as 'The True Cost,' which explores the fashion industry, and 'Inside the Vatican,' which delves into the history of a significant institution. Both films share a focus on cultural and historical analysis.
Is there a sequel to Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution?
Currently, there is no sequel announced for Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution. However, the film's exploration of ongoing developments in retail and business could potentially lead to further documentaries in the future.
What is the critical reception of Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution?
Harrods: The Rise & Fall of a British Institution has received a generally positive reception from critics, who praise its insightful storytelling and the depth of its historical context. Viewers appreciate its balance of personal narratives and broader societal implications surrounding the storied department store.