Review of The King's Speech (2010) by Anssi V — 26 Sep 2012

You wouldn't think that a movie about a man trying to overcome his stuttering problem would amount to much anything, but when you add in the fact that the man in question is King George VI of Britain and that the movie takes place just before and during the early stages of World War II, well, then you have a powerful drama in the making.

Not that a movie about just a man with a speech impairment couldn't have been good, but the historical background does add to the movie's charm in this case, in my opinion. The fact that the king needs to be able to make speeches in order to lead his country raises stakes and makes the learning process more than just a personal struggle. The fact that this is based on a true story also adds that final touch of realism, which is clearly present in the film as a whole. The film feels like this really could have happened, and to a degree it did. Apparently the film makers did take some liberties with the timeline and the small details, but in this case all these changes were done for a reason and at least I don't blame them. This film is done with professionalism, care and personal love for the subject matter and it shows. Excellent film making all around.

Nevertheless, the quality of a drama film is often decided by the main actors, and this is no exception. This film needed charismatic and, above all, convincing actors to play King George and Lionel Logue. Fortunately Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush more than rose up to the occasion, giving brilliant performances and easily convincing us that they are the real deal. Firth especially was amazing, I cannot praise his performance enough. His soul, his struggling, his quiet dignity and determination.

Props for Helena Bonham Carter as well. Always a favourite of mine.

This is a film that all lovers of historical drama should see. The story is extremely powerful. It invests you into the lives of its characters and when things finally start to work out for our dear king, you cannot help but smile proudly.