Eccentric British painter J.M.W. Turner lives his last 25 years with gusto and secretly becomes involved with a seaside landlady, while his faithful housekeeper bears an unrequited love for him.
The story of this artist reminds me of a book I read many years ago, which described the lives of classical composers such as Mozart. It seems they were often like rock or film stars of more modern times. They lived life large and invited scandal. Mr. Turner describes a similar character. He lives how he wants and except for awkward moments with ex-lovers and his trail of children left behind, her gets away with it. As one interviewer noted, Timothy Spall grunts his way through this film, though as usual, his performance is much more layered than that throwaway phrase describes. Lesley Manville is excellent, as always and Dorothy Atkinson is stunning in her complex yet minimalistic portayal. As with more Mike Leigh films, it features a wonderful ensemble cast. I think the finest British actors line up to play in his films the way it often happens when directors are on a role, such as Woody Allen in his prime years in this country. The plot has depth, though some of the commentary about the artists of the time feels rather obscure to me now. I knew when I first watched it that I would need to see it again, and I am glad I did as it added to my comprehension and appreciation. However, unlike several of Mike Leigh’s masterpieces, I will not want to watch it again beyond that required second viewing. The artistry is there, but the drama and tension of my favorite Leigh films is more lacking. Still a worthy addition to his collection, though.
