A deeply human story in the depths of the 1930s British royal family, The King’s Speech sees the Duke of York (Colin Firth – A Single Man, Kingsman) battle with his debilitating stutter – and turn to the unconventional methods of Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue.
Logue (Geoffrey Rush – Shine, Pirates of the Caribbean) is anything but a fawning royalist – my way or no way – and gradually wins over the trust of the initially reluctant Bertie and gratitude of the Duchess of York (Helena Bonham Carter – Ocean’s 8, Howards End). It proves to be fortuitous as York’s brother, Edward (Guy Pearce – LA Confidential, Memento) abdicates from the throne and Bertie becomes King George VI.
Shot through with warmth and humour, the absorbing film, set in the decade leading up to the outbreak of World War II, pivots on the wholly convincing relationship between the two men. It’s a pleasure to watch as a cracking script (David Seidler) and indepth performances are perfectly marshalled by director Tom Hooper (Les Miserables, Cats).
Nominated for 12 Oscars in 2011 including best supporting actor (Rush), supporting actress, costume design, original score – won 4 for best film, director, actor, original script.
Rating: 79%
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