Mr.Turner is the biodrama of the artist J.M.W Turner (Joseph Mallord William Turner)

Turner was an English Romantic landscape painter, watercolorist, and printmaker. He was known for being a controversial figure and for his masterful use of light throughout his works. Some of his paintings are even considered abstract rather than traditional landscapes.

The film itself deviates slightly from the actual history of Turner’s life by adding more drama and a few unrelated elements, but overall, it portrays his life quite accurately.

One aspect that isn’t well-documented in history but is heavily emphasized in the film is the sexual exploitation and mistreatment of his maid, who is depicted as being in love with him. This portrayal makes the character seem like a complete asshole. Other elements, such as his confrontation with his “wife” and two daughters, as well as the introduction of an additional lover later in the film, contribute to a rather harsh and morbid depiction of Turner. It paints him as a deeply flawed individual, perhaps more so than he was in reality. I feel like the film went a little too far in adding extra drama to his life—but that’s just my opinion.

Timothy Spall, who plays J.M.W. Turner, does an absolutely fantastic job. I don’t think they could have found anyone better suited for the role—his signature “whatever, fuck off” grunt is pure perfection.

History

Turner was baptized on May 14, 1775, but his actual birth date remains unknown. He claimed to have been born on April 23, but there is no proof to confirm this. His father, William Turner, was a barber and wig maker, while his mother came from a family of butchers. Turner had a sister named Mary Ann, but she died at the age of four.

As a child, Turner suffered from what was described as a “fit of illness,” which may have been a form of mental or neurological condition. Due to this, he was sent to live with his maternal uncle, Joseph Mallory William Marshall. At a young age, Turner began drawing, sketching, and engraving designs onto wooden or metal plates. His father proudly displayed and sold these works in his barbershop window. Many of Turner’s early sketches focused on architecture and landscapes, and by 1789, he was studying under the topographical draughtsman Thomas Malton.

At just 14 years old, Turner entered the Royal Academy of Arts and was officially accepted a year later. Initially, he focused on watercolor paintings and architectural studies before transitioning to oil painting, where he became known for his marine and ocean scenes.

The death of his father in 1829 had a profound impact on Turner, sending him into extreme depression and remorse. He never married, though he had a relationship with an older widow, Sarah Danby, and is believed to have fathered her two daughters, born in 1801 and 1811.

Turner spent his later years in Chelsea, where he lived with his mistress, Sophia Caroline Booth. He passed away on December 19, 1851. His reported last words were, “The sun is God.”

Turner’s Art and Legacy

Over time, Turner’s painting style evolved, becoming less rigid and more expressive. His later works were heavily criticized for their abstract nature. The film suggests that he was mocked for his dramatic shift in style, a sentiment echoed in historical records.

To illustrate this shift, consider the following:

Early Work:

Later Work:

While both paintings are visually stunning, Turner was criticized for the second piece’s abstract style. Today, however, it is celebrated as a groundbreaking work.

Turner never sold or gave away his paintings before his death, leaving them to his closest relatives. His will stated that he wished to create a gallery for his works and provide financial support for “decayed artists.” However, a court battle led by his first cousin, Thomas Price Turner, resulted in his fortune being divided. Some funds went to the Royal Academy of Arts, which now occasionally awards the Turner Medal.

Twenty-two years after his death, the British Parliament passed an act allowing his paintings to be lent to museums outside of London, scattering his collection and ultimately dissolving his vision of a single Turner Gallery.

Despite this, Turner’s works remain incredibly valuable.

If you appreciate great art, biographical storytelling, and a mix of drama, inspiration, and chaos, give Mr. Turner a watch!