The Duke: A True Story of Art and Rebellion

The charming British comedy-drama, 'The Duke', directed by the late Roger Michell, has captivated audiences with its heartwarming tale of an unlikely art heist. But how much of this delightful film is rooted in reality? For those who have been enchanted by the story of Kempton Bunton and his audacious act of defiance, the answer is: quite a lot. 'The Duke' is indeed based on a true story, specifically the 1961 theft of Francisco Goya's iconic painting, 'The Portrait of the Duke of Wellington', from the National Gallery in London.

The Audacious Heist: A Tale of Two Dukes

The film centres around Kempton Bunton, a sixty-year-old, self-educated working-class man from Newcastle. The real Kempton Bunton was a retired army bursar and a passionate campaigner for the rights of pensioners. In 1961, he found himself in the dock at the Old Bailey, pleading not guilty to the charges of stealing the priceless Goya painting and its frame. This wasn't a crime of greed or malice, but a calculated act of protest. Bunton's motive? To force the government to make television licences free for old-age pensioners. At the time, many elderly people struggled to afford the licence fee, a cause that Bunton felt deeply about.

Kempton Bunton: The Man Behind the Masterpiece

Jim Broadbent brilliantly portrays Kempton Bunton, a man whose life was marked by a fierce sense of justice and a deep love for his family. The film touches upon Bunton's personal struggles, including the grief over the tragic death of his daughter, Marion, in a cycling accident. This personal tragedy, coupled with his broader social activism, fuels his determination to make a statement. Bunton's character is depicted as a man who, despite his humble background, possesses a sharp intellect and a persuasive way with words, often to the exasperation of his wife, Dorothy, played by the formidable Helen Mirren.

Bunton's campaign against the TV licence fee was a significant part of his life. The film shows him being jailed for 13 days for watching television without a licence, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his principles. He even tried to get the BBC interested in his scripts, showcasing a creative spirit alongside his activist zeal. His sacking from his job as a taxi driver for being too talkative and giving a free ride to a disabled veteran further highlights his compassionate and principled nature.

The Plan: Ransom and Revolution

The narrative unfolds with Kempton's trip to London, ostensibly to raise press and parliamentary attention for his campaign. While there, he orchestrates the theft of the Goya. The film cleverly depicts how he, with the help of his son Jackie (played by Fionn Whitehead), creates a false back to a wardrobe to conceal the stolen masterpiece. The ransom notes sent to the government, demanding the exemption of the elderly from paying the TV licence fee, are the heart of his audacious plan.

The plot thickens with the arrival of his elder son, Kenny, and his lover, Pammy. Pammy's discovery of the painting creates a moment of panic for Kempton, who then decides to return the painting rather than have it used for fundraising. This decision showcases his inherent honesty, even amidst his criminal act.

The Trial: A Defence of Principle

The trial forms a crucial part of the film, where Kempton's barrister, Jeremy Hutchinson, mounts a unique defence. Instead of denying the theft, Hutchinson argues that Bunton had no intention of permanently depriving the National Gallery of the painting. He claims Bunton merely 'borrowed' it to highlight a pressing social issue. Kempton's own voluble testimony further bolsters this defence, painting him as a man driven by conviction rather than criminal intent. It's a brilliant legal strategy that plays on the public's sympathy and the unusual circumstances of the case.

The Twist: A Son's Sacrifice

In a poignant turn of events, it is revealed that it was actually Jackie, Kempton's son, who stole the painting. Kempton, ever the protective father, took the blame to shield his son. This revelation adds a layer of emotional depth to the story, highlighting the strong familial bonds and sacrifices made.

The jury acquits Kempton of all charges except for the theft of the picture frame, which Jackie had removed and subsequently lost. Kempton receives a three-month sentence. The film concludes with Kempton and Dorothy reconciling, having processed their grief over Marion's death. Their renewed connection is beautifully illustrated as they watch 'Dr. No' in a cinema, sharing a chuckle at the very painting that became the centrepiece of their family's extraordinary story.

Aftermath: Justice and Lingering Questions

The film's epilogue reveals that Jackie eventually admitted his guilt to the police years later. However, to avoid a potentially embarrassing public trial and further media attention, the authorities decided not to prosecute him, provided he remained silent. The frame, it is stated, was never recovered.

A significant outcome of Bunton's campaign was the eventual introduction of free TV licences for those over 75. While the film notes that this policy was implemented in 2000, it also poignantly points out that the policy was reversed in August 2020, shortly before the film's release. This adds a layer of contemporary relevance to Bunton's struggle for the rights of the elderly.

Key Differences and Artistic Licence

While 'The Duke' is largely faithful to the true events, like most biopics, it takes some artistic liberties to enhance the narrative and emotional impact. The precise details of the ransom demands, the conversations within the family, and the specific interactions during the trial are dramatised. The film also slightly alters the timeline and the specific circumstances surrounding the discovery of the painting by Pammy. However, the core of the story – Kempton Bunton's motive, the theft of the Goya, his trial, and his ultimate acquittal on the main charge – remains true to the historical record.

Production and Reception

Filming for 'The Duke' began in November 2019, with shooting locations including Bradford and Leeds. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on 4 September 2020. It received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the performances of Broadbent and Mirren, and Michell's direction. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an impressive 97% approval rating, with critics calling it a "well-acted and engaging dramatization of an entertainingly improbable true story."

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'The Duke' based on a true story?

Yes, 'The Duke' is based on the true story of Kempton Bunton's 1961 theft of Francisco Goya's 'Portrait of the Duke of Wellington' from the National Gallery in London.

Who was Kempton Bunton?

Kempton Bunton was a retired army bursar and a campaigner for the rights of old-age pensioners. He famously stole the Goya painting to protest against the cost of TV licences for the elderly.

What was the motive for the theft?

Bunton's motive was to pressure the government into making television licences free for old-age pensioners. He believed that the elderly, often on fixed incomes, should not have to bear the cost of licences.

Was Kempton Bunton convicted?

Kempton Bunton was acquitted of stealing the painting itself. He was convicted only of stealing the £80 picture frame, for which he received a three-month prison sentence.

Did the theft lead to free TV licences for pensioners?

While Bunton's actions brought significant attention to the issue, the film notes that free TV licences for the over-75s were eventually introduced in 2000, though this policy has since been altered.

Conclusion: A Testament to the Power of Ordinary People

'The Duke' is more than just a film about a stolen painting; it's a poignant reminder of how ordinary individuals can challenge the status quo and fight for what they believe in. Kempton Bunton's story, brought to life so vibrantly on screen, is a testament to the power of conviction, the importance of family, and the enduring spirit of activism. It’s a film that entertains, educates, and ultimately, inspires.