Duchess (2024) is a gritty British crime-action thriller directed by Neil Marshall, centered on Scarlett Monaghan, a low-level pickpocket who becomes a powerful underworld figure known as “Duchess.” When Scarlett’s lover Rob, a diamond smuggler, is betrayed and murdered by his own crew, she is left for dead. Fueled by vengeance, she emerges from the shadows as a ruthless anti-heroine ready to take on those who wronged her. Thrust into a dangerous and male-dominated underworld, Scarlett must navigate treacherous alliances, drugged betrayals, and double-crosses to claim her revenge. As she builds her own criminal empire, she encounters Danny and Baraka, Rob’s former partners, and Queen-Fence Charlie, who controls the illicit diamond trade. The film follows her transformation from a petty criminal to a calculated, relentless force—a “queenpin” who will stop at nothing to repay the debt owed to her. The movie balances stylized action with emotional intensity, featuring gunfights, betrayal, and a dive into the dark world of smuggling. Through Scarlett’s arc, Duchess explores themes of class, power, and the cost of retribution. Critics have noted its attempt to pay homage to early 2000s British gangster films, even if the execution leans into clichés. Wikipedia +2 flickfeast +2 While the film tries to empower its female lead, some reviews argue it falls back on tired tropes. flickfeast ⏱ Runtime 113 minutes (approx. 1h 53m) Moviefone +1 👥 Cast Charlotte Kirk as Scarlett / “Duchess” Wikipedia Philip Winchester as Rob Wikipedia Sean Pertwee as Danny Wikipedia Hoji Fortuna as Baraka Wikipedia Stephanie Beacham as Charlie (queen-fence) Wikipedia Colm Meaney as Frank Wikipedia 📅 Release Date Theatrical / Limited Release: 9 August 2024 (UK) Moviefone +1 Digital / Video Release: Also around 9 August 2024 via Saban Films The Numbers
