A Winning Film

Rating: 9/10 (16 May 2011)

Tom Hooper's The King's Speech (2010) stands as my favorite film of the Oscar season. I would maybe even go to say it is my favorite film of the year. After the death of King George V (Michael Gamdon) and the abdication of King Edward VIII (Guy Pearce), Bertie (Colin Firth) a.k.a King George VI must ascend to the throne and overcome the struggle of his awful stammer in order to prove himself as a strong, confident king. To do so, he hires Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), a failed actor and spirited speech therapist, who, with unique methods, must help Bertie successfully deliver an inspiring radio-address. This period piece is amazingly uplifting. Bertie carries himself courageously and is an easy hero to identify with. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll pinch the person sitting next to you if Bertie screws it up! It is brilliantly written and performed. Colin Firth gives an incredible performance. With the stammer attached to that child- like face, one couldn't help but sympathize with this man every time he speaks. No doubt, he will be taking home the Oscar this year for 'Best Actor in a Leading Role'. Simply put, The King's Speech is a great story and a joy to watch.