Critical popcorn

Now here’s a trailer to warm the cockles, and I’m sure the film will as well, already! Released by Pathé, this all-new trailer and poster is for The Duke, that stars the mighty duo (and national treasures) in the shape of Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren – this uplifting dramatic comedy has been directed by Bafta winner Roger Michell from a screenplay by Richard Bean and Clive Coleman – It comes to UK cinemas from 3rd September.

Based on a true story, The Duke is set to be a moving story that celebrates a man who was determined to live a meaningful life.  Set in 1961, it follows the story of Kempton Bunton, a 60-year old taxi driver, who stole Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London. It was the first, and remains the only, theft in the Gallery’s history. Kempton proceeded to send ransom notes declaring that he would only return the painting on the condition that the government invest more in care for the elderly, specifically bringing attention to his long running campaign for pensioners to receive free television.

This feels like a film for now, more than ever, and while it’s worrying to think people were still trying to fight for each other and we continue to do so, thankfully there’s people like Kempton, who kept things moving forward. With more than a hint of the likes of I, Daniel Blake, just take a watch and let us know what you think – it’s a touching story:

The Duke is released by Pathé, Ingenious Media and a Screen Yorkshire presentation of a Neon Films Production – It comes to UK cinemas from 3rd September.