Marvelous cinema...

Rating: 8/10 (12 January 2012)

In 1936 Britain--after his father, King George V, dies and his brother, Edward, renounces the throne in order to marry a two-time divorcÃ©e--Prince Albert, Duke of York must assume the royal duties during a turbulent time in world history, which includes giving a unifying speech to all the country over the wireless. Albert's biggest worry, however, is just getting through that nine-minute speech without his usual stammer, which has daunted him since he was a child. Impeccably-performed, emotional and entertaining bit of history concentrates on character instead of textbook events (which, in this case--and with this cast--is a plus). Colin Firth deservedly won the Best Actor Oscar for his amazing work in the lead, though Geoffrey Rush (who also served as executive producer) is every bit as good portraying Albert's unorthodox speech therapist. The film is a bit isolated from the world outside; we get a glimpse of a coronation (and also of Hitler) in a newsreel clip, but there's not much on the working classes--which tends to lessen the overall impact of the finale. Still, it's a feel-good movie, presented with heart (thanks to the actors) and sincerity. The uplift one gets from it doesn't dim the biographical context, nor does the scenario feel Hollywoodized. This is one classy picture, which also nabbed Oscars for Best Film, David Seidler for his original screenplay, and Tom Hooper for his direction. ***1/2 from ****