The King's Speech

by Edward Dunn

The King’s Speech
118 minutes
R
Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall, Derek Jacobi, Claire Bloom, Michael Gambon
Director: Tom Hooper.

 

Remember that you are an actor in a drama, of such a part as it may please the master to assign you, for a long time or for a little as he may choose. And if He will you to take the part of a poor man, or a cripple, or a ruler, or a private citizen, then may you act that part  with grace! For to act well the part that is allotted to us,  that indeed is ours to do, but to choose it is Another's.

                       -Epictetus

 

George V was king of England until his death in 1936. Edward VIII (Pierce) was his eldest son and immediate successor. Edward stepped down as king shortly thereafter to pursue a love interest. George VI (Firth) became king, a position he reluctantly accepted. His reluctance was due to his life long struggle with stuttering. Radio and film were new technologies of the era and he need to learn how to communicate more effectively. The King's Speech is about him learning to control a speech impediment

Dramatic English films of the past few years have been long on acting and short on substance. The Queen is one of the more egregious examples. The British like their monarchy about as much as they like Oasis. Any boring film about the death of Princess Diana is going to get a free pass. I was surprised to find myself so thoroughly engrossed with this film. I would describe The King's Speech as smart, stylish and substantial. The main character's struggle is universal and inspirational. He has an embarrassing problem, one that is hard to come to terms with. Breaking through one of life's obstacles bravely, boldly and head on. One minor flaw with this movie is the characterization of Winston Churchill. It's a little one-dimensional and over the top. All in all, one of the better movies of 2010.

Final Verdict: 95 out of 100

(These past few reviews have been on high quality movies. 2010 was a great year for film, significantly better than 2009. That being said, I look forward to reviewing the new Big Mama's House when it comes out.)