Who is the Duke Based On?
The 2020 film "The Duke" is a drama directed by Roger Michell and written by Richard Bean, who is known for his work on "The Commitments" and "Pride". The film tells the story of Kempton Bunton, a 60-year-old bus driver from Newcastle, who in 1961 steals Goya’s "Portrait of the Duke of Wellington" from the National Gallery to draw attention to the unfair cost of television licenses.
Who is Kempton Bunton?
Kempton Bunton, played by Jim Broadbent, is a fictional character based on a true story. The film’s narrative is inspired by real-life events, although the character of Kempton and some of the details are fictionalized. The inspiration for the film came from a 1961 heist in which Goya’s "Portrait of the Duke of Wellington" was stolen from the National Gallery in London.
What Motivated Kempton’s Heist?
Bunton’s motivations for stealing the painting are not explicitly stated in the film, but it is hinted that he was trying to draw attention to the fact that the BBC was imposing a television license fee on households, even those without a television. This issue was a contentious one in the UK at the time, and Bunton’s heist was seen as a protest against the policy.
The Real Kempton Bunton
While Kempton Bunton is a fictionalized character, there is a real person who shared his name and occupation. Kempton Bunton, a retired bus driver, stole Goya’s "Portrait of the Duke of Wellington" from the National Gallery in London on March 30, 1961. The painting was later recovered, and Bunton was arrested and charged with theft. He was released after serving a short prison sentence.
The Inspiration Behind the Film
The screenplay for "The Duke" was written by Richard Bean, who was inspired by the true story of Kempton Bunton’s heist. Bean has said that he was drawn to the story because of its quirky charm and the fact that it was a "clever and daring" act that had a significant impact. The film’s narrative explores the motivations behind Bunton’s heist and the consequences that followed.
Key Takeaways
• The film "The Duke" is based on the true story of Kempton Bunton, a bus driver who stole Goya’s "Portrait of the Duke of Wellington" from the National Gallery in 1961.
• Kempton Bunton is a fictionalized character, although some details of the film’s narrative are based on real-life events.
• The inspiration behind the film came from a desire to tell a quirky and charming story about a daring heist.
Conclusion
"The Duke" is a thought-provoking film that explores the motivations behind a daring heist and the consequences that followed. The true story of Kempton Bunton’s heist serves as the inspiration for the film, which features a talented cast and clever dialogue. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or drama, "The Duke" is a must-see film that is sure to leave you wondering about the motivations behind human actions.