Review of The King's Speech (2010) by Chris S — 26 Nov 2013

From start to finish, Colin Firth gives the best performance of his career as the stammering King George "Berty" VI, effectively carrying one of the best historical dramas in the last decade, if not in history. The film tells of the story of the Duke of York, who, at the beginning of World War II, is tasked with becoming king and uniting his country in a dire hour after his arrogant, cruel brother shirks his responsibilities as king and runs off with an American divorcee. Berty fears the position as king because of its requirement to make speeches, something his impediment largely prevents from happening. Firth is absolutely brilliant as the King, putting on the outside an aura of strength and bravery, and yet also concealing inner fear and disgust at the sound of his own voice. In one of the films most powerful scenes, Berty tells his children a story at their request, and rushes through it as their expecting, eager eyes stare back at him. He does not wish to let them down, but wishes also not to embarrass them with his frequent stammer.

After seeing a number of doctors about his impediment, Berty's tender, loving, and endearing wife-an exceptional Helena Bonham Carter in her best, least freaky role to date-eventually resorts to an unconventional doctor with little to no credentials who's unorthodox methods and quirky personality eventually aid Berty in building the persona and speech fit for a king. Geoffrey Rush plays the unconventional doctor and often steals the scene from the equally brilliant Firth. The two are a joy to watch together, and form one of the most dynamic acting duos ever to grace the silver screen.

Other awe-inspiring performances in the film include Guy Pearce as the irresponsible brother, Michael Gambon as Firth's father, and Timothy Spall (in a stroke of casting genius) as Winston Churchill.

Overall, King's Speech is a must-see and a surefire Oscar winner. firth is a shoe-in for best actor as he was also nominated last year, and both Carter and Rush are guaranteed supporting nominations. In fact, this spectacular film may even steal the top prize from the Social Network.