Gifted performances and talented writing/directing make this a historical gem.

Rating: Null/10 (19 August 2016)

Biopics and historical time-pieces are either masterful or plain boring. "The King's Speech" is the kind of historical biopic that is masterful. We follow the story of the man who became King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II. After his brother abdicates, George (Colin Firth) reluctantly assumes the throne. Plagued by a dreaded stammer and considered unfit to be king, George engages the help of an unorthodox speech therapist named Lionel (Geoffrey Rush). Through a set of unexpected techniques, and as a result of an unlikely friendship, George is able to find his voice and boldly lead the country through war. Sound like a snoozer? Don't be fooled. Director Tom Hooper leads this film down the right path, giving the film a wonderful production and costume design that helps establish the historical importance of this film. He also crafts a truly mesmerizing and elegant scene, where King George finally gives his speech regarding the politics of war during the time of his reign. Colin Firth and Geofrey Rush and flat- out wonderful, giving witty and poignant performances that accompany Helen Bonham Carter's work as King George's wife Elizabeth. Tom Hooper does wonders bringing David Seidler's script to life, a written work of wit and history that makes for one terrific movie that will be remembered for years.