The Kings Speech (The Weinstein Company)
Long Live This King
The Kings Speech is an excellent movie about King George VIs speech problems. This does not sound like a subject matter many people would enjoy watching but in the hands of masterful actors such as Colin Forth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter it is marvelous entertainment. It may not appeal to the younger audiences who crave action and excitement, but for those mature in mind it is a joy to behold.
Albert (Firth) is second in line to succeed King George V (Michael Gambon) on the British throne. His brother David (Guy Pierce) is the number one son, but he is causing the family problems by his romance with the twice married Wallis Simpson (Eve Best). It is not acceptable for a king to be married to a divorcee.
Albert, also known as Bertie, has a stuttering problem which fear of his father enhances. His wife Elizabeth (Carter) arranges for him to have treatment by speech specialist Lionel Logue (Rush). Logue will not treat Bertie unless they can act as equals, a requirement that is difficult for Bertie to overcome.
Berties treatment ands triumph as well as the evolving friendship between the two men is the heart of this film, and a good solid heart it is. This film also lifts the curtain up on the royal family and allows a glimpse at Bertie and Elizabeth as they attend to their children Elizabeth and Margaret. Still it is the relationship between Bertie and Lionel that is the center of the movie.
Firth is amazing as Bertie. He handles the speech impediments naturally and lets the kings frustrations become the audiences. Rush is equally good in his part and manages to be a harsh disciplinarian while also showing warmth and encouragement. Carter is a needed part of the triumvirate as she supports Bertie as well as Logue.
The entire cast appears born to play their parts and they make the entire effect of the film one of professionalism and polish. Still the three main stars shine the brightest and have the most impact.
The film is rated R for profanity but this is one of the rare times when the profanity seems necessary to the plot.
The stellar performances should draw an audience for this wonderful film. It certainly is an affecting tribute to the courage of the human spirit, as well as a testament to true friendship.
I scored The Kings Speech an eloquent 8 out of 10.
