Who is Rufus in Lady in the Van?

Rufus is a significant character in the 2015 film, The Lady in the Van. He is one of two distinct representations of the renowned playwright and author, Alan Bennett, who is the central figure in the narrative.

Understanding Rufus's Role

In The Lady in the Van, Alan Bennett is uniquely portrayed by two separate actors: Alex Jennings as the Alan Bennett who interacts with the outside world and the eccentric Miss Shepherd, and Roger Allam as Rufus.

Rufus represents an inner, more analytical, and sometimes cynical aspect of Alan Bennett's personality. He often acts as a conscience or an alter ego, observing, commenting on, and questioning the actions and thoughts of the "other" Alan Bennett. This dual portrayal allows the film to explore Bennett's internal struggles, creative process, and the complexities of his relationship with Miss Shepherd, a homeless woman who parked her van in his driveway for fifteen years.

Essentially, Rufus embodies the writer's inner voice, providing a unique perspective on the events unfolding around him and the profound impact Miss Shepherd has on his life and work.

Here is a quick overview of Rufus:

This portrayal adds a distinctive meta-narrative layer to the film, enhancing the audience's understanding of Bennett's personal and artistic journey during this unusual period of his life.