Anna Maxwell Martin & Matthew Goode Star in ‘The Duke’

In a move that has delighted fans of "Ealing-style" capers and prestige British acting, the critically acclaimed real-life drama The Duke has officially landed on BBC iPlayer. While the film features powerhouse leads in Jim Broadbent and Helen Mirren, it is the presence of Anna Maxwell Martin and Matthew Goode that has sparked particular excitement among BBC viewers.

The duo, who famously shared the screen in the BBC’s Jane Austen-inspired mystery Death Comes to Pemberley, reunite here in a story that The Observer described as "a charming, understated, and completely enjoyable frolic."

The "Scarily Real" Story of the Goya Heist

Released in cinemas in 2022 and making its BBC streaming debut in early 2026, The Duke follows the true, improbable story of Kempton Bunton (Broadbent). In 1961, Bunton, a 60-year-old taxi driver from Newcastle, allegedly stole Francisco Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the National Gallery in London.

It remains the only theft in the National Gallery's history, but Bunton didn't do it for profit. He sent ransom notes claiming he would return the painting on one condition: that the government invest more in care for the elderly and provide free TV licenses for pensioners.

The Roles: From Pemberley to the Courtroom

While Broadbent and Mirren anchor the film as the bickering but devoted Buntons, Maxwell Martin and Goode provide the vital social and legal framework for the story.

• Matthew Goode as Jeremy Hutchinson: Goode plays the suave, high-society defense barrister who represents Kempton during his sensational trial. His performance has been praised for its "effortless elegance," providing a sharp contrast to Kempton’s working-class grit.

• Anna Maxwell Martin as Mrs. Gowling: Martin plays the "watchful and slightly pinched" Mrs. Gowling, a wealthy neighbor for whom Dorothy Bunton (Mirren) works as a housekeeper. Martin brings her signature sharp wit to a role that represents the rigid class divides of 1960s Britain.

Why It’s Trending in 2026

Though the film first premiered a few years ago, its arrival on the BBC in January 2026 has given it a second life. Critics have noted that its themes of social justice, the cost of living, and the value of public broadcasting feel remarkably relevant to today's audience.

With a 97% Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is being hailed as the "perfect Friday night watch"—a rare awards-season title that manages to be both intellectually sharp and genuinely heartwarming.

Where to Watch

• Platform: BBC iPlayer (and airing on BBC Two)

• Runtime: 96 minutes

• Tone: Heartwarming, witty, and "Ealing-esque"

If you're looking for a "hidden gem" performance from Anna Maxwell Martin or want to see Matthew Goode at his most charismatic, The Duke is currently available for UK viewers to stream for free.

Source - https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a69995511/anna-maxwell-martin-the-duke-streaming-bbc/

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