The Duke (2020)

Review Team

4/5

The Duke, directed by Roger Michell, offers a delightful mix of humour and heart, encapsulating a unique moment in art history. The film tells the story of Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old taxi driver who steals Goya's portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in 1961. Jim Broadbent ... Show more >> The Duke, directed by Roger Michell, offers a delightful mix of humour and heart, encapsulating a unique moment in art history. The film tells the story of Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old taxi driver who steals Goya's portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in 1961. Jim Broadbent delivers a stellar performance, embodying Bunton's charm and stubbornness, while Helen Bonham Carter as his wife adds depth to the narrative. The film's direction is both light-hearted and insightful, balancing comedic moments with poignant reflections on social justice and personal conviction. The cinematography beautifully captures the essence of 1960s London, immersing the audience in the era. Overall, The Duke is a well-crafted film that entertains while provoking thought about art, ownership, and moral choice. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

The Duke is an interesting but somewhat uneven film that attempts to blend comedy with a historical narrative. While the premise of a taxi driver stealing a famous painting sounds intriguing, the execution feels a bit lacklustre at times. Jim Broadbent shines in his role, bringing a quirky charm to ... Show more >> The Duke is an interesting but somewhat uneven film that attempts to blend comedy with a historical narrative. While the premise of a taxi driver stealing a famous painting sounds intriguing, the execution feels a bit lacklustre at times. Jim Broadbent shines in his role, bringing a quirky charm to Kempton Bunton, but the pacing drags in parts, making it hard to stay fully engaged. The film does have its moments of wit and warmth, particularly in the interactions between Kempton and his wife, played by Helen Bonham Carter. However, the tonal shifts can be jarring. It’s a pleasant watch, but perhaps not as impactful as it could have been. If you're a fan of British comedy dramas, it might still be worth a look, but don’t expect a masterpiece. Show less