The Duke Review: Broadbent & Mirren Excel In Stylish, Heartwarming Dramedy
The Duke, a stunning new caper by the late Roger Michell, tells the astonishing true story of the 1961 theft of Goya's portrait of the Duke of Wellington (Notting Hill). Those who are unfamiliar with the events will enjoy seeing them develop, while even those who are familiar with the events will be captivated by the unseen side of the narrative. Michell tackles the ridiculous tale with respect and compassion, giving The Duke an earnest touch that improves the material, working from a scenario by richard Bean and Clive Coleman. The Duke is an overall enjoyable depiction of a wonderful actual story driven by heartfelt performances, despite a small gap in the middle.
The iconic Duke of Wellington portrait by Goya is displayed in London's National Gallery in 1961. The british government paid £140,000 for it, and its presence in the country is seen as a source of pride. However, Kempton Bunton, a Newcastle resident, believes it is unjust that such a large sum of money could be spent on such an item while OAPs, or old-age pensioners, must pay for television licences. Kempton kidnaps the Duke from the Gallery and begins mailing ransom notes to the government, pleading for them to help the elderly. What follows is a very poignant true story in which Kempton, with the support of his son Jacki, fights for what he believes is right, despite his put-upon wife Dorothy's wishes for him to stop.
The iconic Duke of Wellington portrait by Goya is displayed in London's National Gallery in 1961. The british government paid £140,000 for it, and its presence in the country is seen as a source of pride. However, Kempton Bunton, a Newcastle resident, believes it is unjust that such a large sum of money could be spent on such an item while OAPs, or old-age pensioners, must pay for television licences. Kempton kidnaps the Duke from the Gallery and begins mailing ransom notes to the government, pleading for them to help the elderly. What follows is a very poignant true story in which Kempton, with the support of his son Jacki, fights for what he believes is right, despite his put-upon wife Dorothy's wishes for him to stop.