Let’s Talk about The King’s Speech (2010)
Imagine trying to sell this story to a roomful of movie execs: a guy with a really bad speech impediment has to make a speech so he sees a speech therapist and then makes the speech—two hours of dramatic vocal exercises. Is it a documentary? No. Does it have vampires, zombies, or aliens? No. Is it animated? No (Porky Pig wasn’t available). It might be a tough sell. Now imagine trying to sell it to audiences.
The King’s Speech, with its impressive cast and splendid writing, did get made, did find an audience, and did win an Oscar for “best film” at the 83rd Academy Awards. In fact, The King’s Speech was nominated for 12 Academy Awards and won four (Colin Firth, best actor; Tom Hooper, best director; David Seidler for best original screenplay; best film).
Colin Firth stars as a reluctant King George VI, thrust into royalty when his brother (Guy Pearce) abdicated the throne in favor of the woman he loved (Eve Best). England was on the verge of entering World War II and was saddled with a king considered to be unfit, partly because of his severe stammer. George’s wife, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter), arranged for speech therapy with an unconventional—yet aptly named—practitioner, Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush).
The King’s Speech incorporates the drama of impending war, with the melodrama of King Edward VIII’s abdication, and the core story of the unlikely friendship between King George VI and Logue. This was a friendship that somehow survived a rocky start and some unusually large bumps along the way. Colin Firth’s performance as the stuttering king is remarkable; Geoffrey Rush as the egocentric Logue is an absolute joy. David Seidler’s beautifully written drama sparkles with ironic humor, as we watch the king struggle with the frustration of not being able to express himself in the manner expected.
Impeccable costumes, sumptuous sets and spotless landscapes complement the story, giving it a true sense of place and time. Technical aspects, such as cinematography, sound, editing, and lighting, all contribute to a film crafted by artists—an absolute pleasure for the audience.
The King’s Speech will be available on DVD, Blu-ray, and digital April 19, 2011. (Click here for a recording of the original speech).
Follow Technorati