Mr. Turner 2014
Directed by
Mike Leigh
Made by
Sony Pictures Classics
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Mr. Turner (2014). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
The film beautifully explores the final twenty-five years of the life of the renowned British painter, J. M. W. Turner. Deeply impacted by the passing of his father, Turner struggles with his emotions while navigating his complex relationships. Among those is Hannah Danby, his housekeeper, portrayed by Lesley Manville, who remains devoted to him despite often being taken for granted and occasionally objectified. In contrast, he finds solace in a more profound connection with Mrs. Booth, a seaside landlady who eventually becomes his companion, leading a more private life together in Chelsea until his death.
Throughout this period, Turner embarks on numerous adventures—traveling extensively, painting evocatively, and mingling with aristocrats. He even engages in a visit to a brothel and becomes a somewhat erratic yet celebrated figure at the Royal Academy of Arts. In one notable scene, he even straps himself to the mast of a ship to capture the fury of a snowstorm on canvas. Turner experiences the highs of public admiration as well as the lows of critique, receiving mixed feelings from both the elite and the general populace.
One significant event depicted in the film is the memorable Royal Academy salon of 1832, where Turner’s seascape, Helvoetsluys, was displayed beside Constable’s masterpiece, The Opening of Waterloo Bridge seen from Whitehall. Overwhelmed by the vibrant colors of Constable’s work, Turner’s ingenious response was to swiftly add a stroke of red paint to represent a buoy in his own piece, showcasing his innate talent. In a moment of recognition, Constable, played by Timothy Spall, acknowledges Turner’s brilliance with the remark, > “He’s been here and fired a gun.” This interaction encapsulates the tension and respect between two titans of the art world.
Timeline
Track the key events of Mr. Turner (2014) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Turner's Father's Death
The film opens with the pivotal moment of Turner losing his father, which deeply impacts him emotionally. This loss sets the tone for the complexities in his relationships and his artistic journey over the following years.
Life with Hannah Danby
Turner navigates a complicated relationship with Hannah Danby, his devoted housekeeper. Despite his tendency to take her for granted and objectify her, Hannah shows unwavering loyalty to Turner during his tumultuous years.
Meeting Mrs. Booth
Amidst his emotional struggles, Turner finds companionship in Mrs. Booth, a seaside landlady. Their relationship blossoms, allowing him to lead a more private life in Chelsea, providing him solace as he approaches the later years of his life.
Turner's Travels
Throughout the film, Turner travels extensively, collecting inspiration for his paintings. His journeys take him to various landscapes, where he captures the beauty of nature with evocative brush strokes, solidifying his reputation as a master painter.
Erratic Fame
Turner becomes a celebrated figure at the Royal Academy of Arts, yet his behavior can be erratic. He mingles with the elite, garners admiration, but also faces critique from both critics and the public alike, showcasing the duality of fame.
The Brothel Visit
In a quest for both inspiration and experience, Turner visits a brothel. This visit reflects his complex character and the societal norms of the time, as well as his daring pursuit of artistic truth.
Strapped to the Mast
In a bold artistic venture, Turner straps himself to the mast of a ship during a snowstorm. This daring act is undertaken to capture the raw power of nature on canvas, showcasing his dedication to his craft.
Royal Academy Salon of 1832
The Royal Academy salon of 1832 becomes a critical event for Turner, where his seascape, Helvoetsluys, is displayed alongside Constable's masterpiece. This competition pushes Turner creatively, leading him to add a stroke of red paint in a moment of artistic rivalry.
Constable's Acknowledgement
During the salon, Constable acknowledges Turner's brilliance with a memorable remark. His comment, 'He's been here and fired a gun,' highlights the mutual respect and underlying tension between the two artists.
Public Recognition and Critique
As Turner continues to paint, he experiences the highs of public recognition paired with harsh critiques from his peers. This dual response from the elite and general public affects his psyche and influences his works moving forward.
Personal Struggles Intensify
As time passes, Turner's personal struggles become more intense, intertwined with his artistic pursuits. He grapples with his emotions, relationships, and the impact of aging, reflected in the evolving depth of his art.
Final Years
In his final years, Turner retreats into a quieter life, focusing on his art and his relationship with Mrs. Booth. His health declines, yet he continues to create some of his most poignant works as he reflects on his legacy.
Turner's Death
The film culminates in the death of Turner, marking the end of a storied life devoted to art. His passing leaves behind a rich legacy that continues to influence generations of artists.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Mr. Turner (2014) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
J. M. W. Turner
J. M. W. Turner is portrayed as a tormented genius whose brilliant mind is often in conflict with his emotional struggles. His ability to evoke deep feelings through his art sets him apart, yet he remains a complex figure, caught between public adoration and personal tragedy. Throughout the film, he showcases both vulnerability and resilience as he navigates life's challenges.
Hannah Danby
Hannah Danby is Turner's devoted housekeeper, characterized by her unwavering loyalty and strength. Despite often being taken for granted, her affection for Turner remains steadfast, reflecting the emotional landscape of their relationship. Hannah embodies the personal sacrifices made in the name of love and devotion.
Mrs. Booth
Mrs. Booth is a pivotal figure in Turner's later years, representing comfort and companionship in the face of his emotional turmoil. Their relationship offers Turner a reprieve from his artistic and personal struggles. As a landlady, she stands as a contrast to his chaotic life, providing him with a sense of stability and privacy.
John Constable
John Constable is depicted as both a rival and a peer to Turner in the art world. His acknowledgment of Turner's talent illustrates the mutual respect between two iconic artists. This dynamic is essential to understanding the competitive yet appreciative nature of the artistic community they inhabit.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Mr. Turner (2014), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
19th Century
The 19th century was a transformative period for art, marked by movements such as Romanticism and Realism. It was a time of great innovation, where artists like Turner challenged traditional techniques and subjects in their work. The era also witnessed significant social and political changes in Britain, which influenced the art scene.
Location
Chelsea, Royal Academy of Arts
Chelsea, a district in London, is known for its rich artistic heritage and picturesque streets. This vibrant area serves as a backdrop for Turner's more private life with Mrs. Booth. The Royal Academy of Arts is a prestigious institution that showcases British art, where Turner both gained recognition and faced critique from the elite.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Mr. Turner (2014). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Artistic Struggles
The film delves into the complexities of an artist's life, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs that come with creative expression. Turner's passion for capturing nature and emotion often puts him at odds with critics and society. His journey ultimately portrays the relentless pursuit of beauty and truth in art.
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Loss and Connection
Turner's relationship with those around him is marked by both deep emotional connections and significant loss. The death of his father profoundly affects him, yet he finds solace and companionship in the devotion of Hannah and the love of Mrs. Booth. These relationships allow him to navigate his grief while continuing his artistic journey.
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Nature's Fury
Nature plays a pivotal role in Turner's artistic vision, often depicted as both a source of inspiration and turmoil. The vivid storms and landscapes he paints reflect his emotional state and connection to the world around him. The film captures this relationship through Turner's daring attempts to convey nature's fury, especially during his infamous snowstorm experience.
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