Providing a fantastic way to escape from the day-to-day and get lost in the magic of the cinema while getting to know an unlikely hero plays large in the appeal of The Duke. Jim Broadbent plays Kempton Bunton, an understated firebrand and champion of the little man. He is oh so British.
The film starts when his protest against the TV levee that the government inflicted back in the sixties lands him in jail where he does time. Broadbent is perfectly cast as the heart of gold Bunton as is the always impeccable Helen Mirren as his long-suffering wife Dorothy. His activities escalate until he is accused of stealing a portrait of the Duke of Wellington by the Spanish painter Goya.
Bunton is so unassuming and eccentric that even with a country-wide search for the missing painting, no suspicion lands at his feet. Several scenes highlight the task of living with such a man and Mirren is a joy to behold as the magnanimous wife. Her class shines through.
Getting the components correct for a true feel-good experience is not an easy task. It’s a fine line between motivation and maudlin and The Duke is an expert at keeping that balance just right. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend some quality time with this easy-going treasure of a film.
Rob Hudson
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