The Duke is a comedy directed by Roger Michell and released in 2020.

the-Duke

It stars Jim Broadbent as Kempton Bunton, Helen Mirren as Dorothy Bunton, Fionn Whitehead as Jackie Bunton, Anna Maxwell Martin as Mrs Gowling and Charlotte Spencer as Pammy.

The film, inspired by a true story, takes place in 1961 in Newcastle Upon Tyne where the Bunton family lives. Kempton Bunton, a sixty year old man, campaigns for free TV for retired and veterans. One day, he decided to steal the portrait of the Duke of Wellington painted by Goya from the National Gallery worth 140 000£ to bring light on his case.

We can see several parts in the film : there is a preview of the end at the beginning of the film which is then explained in the action of the film. The movie ends with a plot twist and a great resolution.

We follow Kempton during the film as a third party who fights for all kinds of social rights and who never lost his funny personality although he is seen as a thief. He is also a really good father because he doesn’t hesitate to protect his sons.

We found the story very inspiring because this old man still fights everyday for things he believes in. Furthermore he has a big heart because he wants to help people in need.

We all liked the plot and grew fond of Mr Bunton throughout the film.

We found links with Art & Power because he stole the art piece to have influence on the public but also as a wake up call to parts of society who don’t fight for their rights.

We would give it a 4 star review because the character was touching and uplifting but sad that it was from a true story. It’s a movie that can be seen with family or friends.

Maëlle, Edma, Lara