The Kings Speech focuses on the lead up to the historic speech made to the British Nation by King George. Not just any speech, but the speech that declared war against Hitlers' Germany. But one problem stood in his way, an embarrassing stammer that George was famous for.
George VI was the deeply loving father of Queen Elizabeth II. Known to his family and close friends as “Bertie”. George never wanted to be King. But, when his brother Edward abdicated the throne, George was thrust onto the throne under surprising and difficult circumstances.
The big issue was that the World was facing Hitler's march across Europe. These times needed a display of command with clarity. Over a quarter of the Worlds population was in the Empire at this time. So, George turns to an Australian Speech Therapist, Lionel Logue, to fix his stammer. The aim was to get him to speak to his people with the resolve necessary to inspire this huge populous. Yes, they succeeded, but the two men also developed a strong friendship.
Firstly, there is one thing that can not be ignored by this film. The Kings Speech walked away with virtually every single award possible and there is a good reason for this. In fact, The Kings Speech received 12 nominations to the Academy Awards in 2011. Winning 4, that included Best Screenplay, Best Directing, Best Actor, and Motion Picture of the Year. So, let's be straight here. The Kings Speech is no slouch of a film. In fact, it is a historically correct period piece that is overflowing with charm. A piece of cinema that would be difficult not to like and a complex story incredibly well told.
Secondly, the script is touching on perfection. Just beautifully woven with rich humor with some genuinely funny moments, whilst challenging the extreme and touching circumstance of the situation. But, by far the icing on the cake is the incredible acting sparing session that is the two performances from Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush.
It's one of the most impressive displays from two actors, in their prime, sparing with each other for the delight of the audience. Firth plays George with exceptional levels of pomp and self-disgust over his speech impediment. Whilst Rush's character jostles with this using his exceptional tact and skill. After all, the majority of the story is these two men in one room. So the result is even more impressive, matched with the incredible dialogue and cinematography.
Now, even though, most of the focus is on the two main characters. That's not to say that the rest of the cast fade away. Because the rest of the cast is packed with talent. Timothy Spall gives a solid performance as Winston Churchill. Guy Pierce is spectacular in his portrayal of Edward. But always edging in on Firth and Rush is Helena Bonham Carter, who provides a wonderfully touching portrayal of Elizabeth. The Queen Mother and wife of George, who adored her husband and provided unwavering support for the whole of his life.
All in all, The Kings Speech is one of those films that firmly sits as a true classic. The kind of film that everyone should watch. It has everything box ticked for a great film, fine script, outstanding acting, captivating subject, and outstanding acting. Plus it does succeed in the feel-good factor, even though the backstory is in the shadow of WWII. On top of this, The Kings Speech is a film for the whole family. Perfect watching on Netflix for a rainy Sunday afternoon.
