The Duke, the acclaimed 2020 British comedy-drama, boasts a delightful running time of 96 minutes (1 hour and 36 minutes). This perfectly paced film offers a heartwarming and humorous story within a manageable timeframe, making it an ideal choice for an evening of entertainment.
What is “The Duke” All About?
“The Duke,” directed by Roger Michell and starring Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren, tells the true story of Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old retired bus driver who steals Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. Bunton, an eccentric idealist, demands that the government invest more in elderly care in exchange for the painting’s return. The film explores themes of social justice, family relationships, and the power of ordinary people to make a difference. Its lighthearted tone belies a surprisingly poignant message about empathy and societal values.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About “The Duke”
Here, we delve into the most frequently asked questions about “The Duke,” offering comprehensive answers and further insights into this captivating film.
FAQ 1: Is “The Duke” Based on a True Story?
Absolutely! “The Duke” is indeed based on the true story of Kempton Bunton, who stole Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington in 1961. While the film takes certain creative liberties for dramatic and comedic effect, the core events and the central character are rooted in reality. Investigating the historical case adds another layer of intrigue to the viewing experience. The actual story is perhaps even stranger and more fascinating than the movie depicts, with some surprising twists and turns revealed in the aftermath.
FAQ 2: Who are the Main Actors in “The Duke”?
The film is led by two exceptional performances:
- Jim Broadbent plays Kempton Bunton, the quirky and principled protagonist.
- Helen Mirren portrays Dorothy Bunton, Kempton’s wife, a pragmatic and long-suffering woman.
Their chemistry and nuanced portrayals are central to the film’s success, bringing depth and emotional resonance to their respective characters. The supporting cast is equally strong, featuring actors like Fionn Whitehead as Jackie Bunton, Kempton’s son, and Matthew Goode as Jeremy Hutchinson, the barrister who defends Kempton.
FAQ 3: What Genre is “The Duke”?
“The Duke” skillfully blends several genres, primarily falling under comedy-drama. It incorporates elements of:
- Crime: Due to the art theft plot.
- Biopic: As it’s based on a real person and event.
- Social Commentary: Exploring themes of social justice and the treatment of the elderly.
This mix ensures a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
FAQ 4: Where Can I Watch “The Duke”?
Availability varies depending on your region and current streaming licenses. Common platforms where you might find “The Duke” include:
- Streaming Services: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu (availability may vary).
- Rental/Purchase: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube Movies.
Check your local streaming services and online retailers to determine where the film is currently available. Library systems also frequently carry movies on DVD and sometimes have streaming rights.
FAQ 5: What are Some of the Key Themes Explored in “The Duke”?
“The Duke” delves into several important themes, including:
- Social Justice: Kempton’s fight for better treatment of the elderly and his opposition to television license fees for pensioners.
- Grief and Loss: The Bunton family is grappling with the loss of their daughter, which adds a layer of emotional complexity to the story.
- Family Relationships: The strained but ultimately loving relationship between Kempton and Dorothy, as well as Kempton’s connection with his son, Jackie.
- The Power of the Ordinary: Showing how ordinary people can make a difference and challenge the status quo.
These themes resonate with audiences and contribute to the film’s enduring appeal.
FAQ 6: What is the Significance of the Goya Painting?
The Goya painting, “Portrait of the Duke of Wellington,” serves as more than just a stolen object. It represents:
- National Pride: As a symbol of British history and artistic heritage.
- Social Inequality: Kempton sees the government’s willingness to spend money on art while neglecting the elderly as a sign of misplaced priorities.
- A Catalyst for Change: The theft of the painting brings Kempton’s cause to national attention.
The painting becomes a symbol around which Kempton rallies public support for his cause.
FAQ 7: How Accurate is the Film Compared to the Real Story?
While “The Duke” is based on true events, it takes certain creative liberties for storytelling purposes. Some details may be embellished or simplified for dramatic effect. It’s important to remember that the film is an interpretation of events, not a strict documentary. However, the core elements of the story, including the theft of the painting and Kempton’s motivations, remain true to the historical record. Much of the film’s charm comes from the sympathetic portrayal of Kempton, even if he wasn’t always quite as endearing in real life.
FAQ 8: What are Some Similar Movies to “The Duke”?
If you enjoyed “The Duke,” you might also like:
- “Paddington” (2014) & “Paddington 2” (2017): For their heartwarming British humor and positive message.
- “The Lady in the Van” (2015): Another based-on-a-true-story film featuring Maggie Smith as a eccentric character.
- “Pride” (2014): For its uplifting story about social activism and unlikely alliances.
- “Local Hero” (1983): A quirky and charming British comedy.
These films share similar themes, tones, or settings that may appeal to fans of “The Duke.”
FAQ 9: What is the Rating of “The Duke”?
“The Duke” typically receives a PG-13 or equivalent rating, depending on the region. This rating suggests that the film may contain some material that is unsuitable for children under 13, such as mild language or thematic elements. Always check the specific rating in your country before watching with younger viewers.
FAQ 10: Where Was “The Duke” Filmed?
“The Duke” was primarily filmed in England, with locations including:
- London: Including scenes at the National Gallery.
- Bradford: Used to represent the Newcastle area where Kempton Bunton lived.
- Leeds: Serving as another location for various scenes.
These locations add to the film’s authenticity and capture the feel of 1960s Britain.
FAQ 11: Is “The Duke” Worth Watching?
Absolutely! “The Duke” is a critically acclaimed film that offers a delightful and thought-provoking viewing experience. With its stellar cast, heartwarming story, and blend of humor and drama, it’s a film that resonates with a wide audience. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the performances of Broadbent and Mirren, the direction, and the film’s overall message.
FAQ 12: Did Kempton Bunton Ever Reveal the Location of the Painting?
While Kempton Bunton initially claimed to have hidden the painting, it was later revealed that his son, Jackie, was responsible for returning it. The exact details of the painting’s whereabouts during the period it was missing remain somewhat unclear. However, Kempton’s confession to taking responsibility for the theft ultimately led to a reduced sentence. The legal and factual complexities surrounding this element of the story contribute to its ongoing fascination. The court case and its revelations proved as captivating as the theft itself.