Society messes everyone up!

Rating: 10/10 (20 February 2019)

Powered by three great central performances this dry, witty film is an interesting take on how societal expectations and roles greatly mess people up. Bertie's stutter only mattered because his job is mainly public speaking. This theme goes throughout most the characters-Lionel as an Australian is viewed a certain way, Edward can't live his love because of his social role, etc. There's that great speech about how kings have been degraded by becoming actors by George 5th. The screenplay is smartly observed on this point and you don't notice the depth the first time you watch it.
That is because you are mostly engaged in a very charming story of male friendship that is at once moving and funny. The interplay between Bertie and Lionel is great; Rush and Firth have a great chemistry. The film really does out like a buddy dramedy and it make the social themes embedded in a very intimate story. The script is quite good.
But Hooper's direction is really what makes the film. The script could have been too dry, too self-serious. But by keeping the tone light and avoiding royal trappings Hooper does the near impossible-make a monarch seem like an everyman. The way Bertie is (literal) marginalized in the frame, with anti-classical framing that slowly transmutes into strong, centered composition as Bertie finds his voice is understated but keeps the film alive. It is just amazing direction.
That Hooper also got 3 of the very best performances just solidifies this. Carter has a gentle toughness that works as the Queen's mum and she is dutifully supportive. Rush tones down his normal mannerism to give, for him, a restrained performance that nevertheless makes Lionel a great eccentric. But best of all is Firth, in what is his career defining performance. He not only stammers beautifully but he emotes with (or past) the stammer. He makes Bertie stand apart from George the 6th. It is just a great performance.
A Great film around!