Attending a special screening of “The King’s Speech” at the Landmark Theaters in Los Angeles, it was not known what to expect. However, once the lights dimmed and a scant two hours later, everyone was applauding the magnificent cinematic achievement.
“The King’s Speech” was inspired by the true story of King George VI, who was afflicted with a speech impediment and his unusual friendship with an Australian speech therapist.
Played by Colin Firth, Prince Albert (aka the Duke of York, who later became King George VI) is a charming, acutely self-conscious man who fears public speaking to such a degree that he nearly cannot speak. Married to a persistent and adoring wife, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter), Prince Albert was persuaded to work with an unconventional speech therapist Lionel Logue — masterfully portrayed by Geoffrey Rush.
The film focuses on the trio’s efforts to conquer Prince Albert’s stammering, which is at times comical and humorous and others, painful and debilitating. But with fate pushing him upon the death of his father, leaving his brother Edward (Guy Pearce) as the next King who quickly abdicated to marry an American divorcee, Prince Albert was determined to be the king the world expected him to be.
Watching Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter on screen is an absolute delight. In “The King’s Speech,” every moment feels like they were having the time of their lives. Despite the weighty subject matter, the film is delivered in a confection of joy and amusement. It invites the audience to feel as empowered as Prince Albert himself tackling an embarrassing speech problem. The journey is an entertaining and endearing look at a man who would be king — and his unexpected friendship with the man who talk him to speak like a king.
As a special treat for classic romance fans, making an appearance in “The King’s Speech” is Jennifer Ehle as Lionel Logue’s wife, Myrtle. Reunited with her 1995 “Pride and Prejudice” co-star Colin Firth, the film pokes fun at their prior film work in a cute scene that fans will love.
In addition to Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter and Jennifer Ehle, the film also offers fantastic performances by Derek Jacobi as Dr. Cosmo Lang, Michael Gambon as Prince Albert’s father King George V, Timothy Spall as Winston Churchill, and Eve Best as the notorious Mrs. Wallis Simpson.
“The King’s Speech” is written by David Seidler, who struggled with his own childhood speech problems — and was inspired by the King who conquered his own impediment — directed by Tom Hooper, and produced by Iain Canning, Emile Sherman and Gareth Unwin. With a gifted cast, a brilliant writer and three producers determined to bring such an extraordinary story to the big screen, “The King’s Speech” is a radiant work of art. It is a must-see for filmgoers in search of a film that delivers fine entertainment.
“The King’s Speech” is scheduled for limited release on November 26, 2010. Find a way to catch this magnificent film.
Related link (SLIDESHOW): http://www.examiner.com/museum-of-tv-and-radio-in-los-angeles/the-king-s-speech-picture
