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| Movie Review: The King's Speech Alternate Title: Finding One's Voice
Story: All the King's horses
and all the King's men could not help this would be King with his stutter.
The film is based on the true story of George VI, who
ascended to the English throne when his brother Edward abdicated in
1936 to marry the twice divorced Wallis Warfield Simpson.
Director Tom Hooper and writer David Seidler
create a terrific piece of movie magic as they recreate the events surrounding
George's ascendancy to the throne and how he was able to eventually
control his stammer as England marches towards war with Germany.
An unconventional Australian speech therapist enters the future King's
life and through physical exercise and eventual psychological discovery,
the Royal finds his voice. This part of the film is fabulously enthralling
as we watch two brilliant actors work at their craft.
Was George VI's stutter as bad as it is depicted?
I think not. Is the Royal family's coziness with Germany overlooked?
I think so. Are some of the scenes depicted for entertainment rather
than veracity. For sure. Yes, the movie plays fast and loose with historical
accuracy but it is not a documentary, it is inspired by true events
and that often makes for a much better film, doesn't it? I recommend this film to one and all. If you
are a bit rusty about this time in history it would be helpful if you
brushed up on these Royals. Watch the trailer here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-aS4hoOSlzo Acting: Colin Firth as King George VI is brilliant
as is Geoffrey Rush as Lionel Logue. Helena
Bonham Carter as Queen Elizabeth can do no wrong. Guy
Pearce as King Edward VIII is terrific. The entire supporting
cast is wonderful including: Jennifer Ehle (Myrtle
Logue), Eve Best (Wallis Simpson), Freya Wilson
(Princess Elizabeth), Ramona Marquez (Princess Margaret),
Claire Bloom (Queen Mary), Derek Jacobi
(Archbishop Cosmo Lang), Michael Gambon (King George
V), Timothy Spall (Winston Churchill) and Anthony
Andrews (Stanley Baldwin).
Trivia: Writer David Seilder has
been working on this idea for decades but could not bring the project
to light until the Queen Mum past away. He never thought she would live
to be 101. So at age 73, former stammerer Seidler, was free to pursue
his idea.
Predilection: I like Colin Firth
Critters: The royal corgi's are present and Mrs Simpson
had a pug.
Food: I cannot recall anyone eating anything.
Sex Spectrum: There are a few funny exchanges about
sex.
Soundtrack: The score by Alexandre Desplat
is beautiful
Visual Art: The royals live well.
Theater Audience: We were almost alone in the secret
balcony but the downstairs was very crowded and the audience applauded
at the end of the film. I turned to my movie buddy and said there was
some irony to the fact that King George VI's great grandson, Harry,
wore a Nazi uniform to a recent Halloween party. We both sighed.
Weather: It is England - there is weather.
Sappy Factor: 0
Quirky Meter: 0
Squirm Scale: Hitler makes me squirm as does Mrs
Simpson.
Drift Factor: I paid attention throughout.
Predictability Level: If you do not have a clue about
history there will be surprises but if you know about this period in
time you can simply enjoy this fine film.
Tissue Usage: I did not well up or cry but my movie
buddy was a weepy mess. (She is much more sentimental than I am).
Oscar Worthy: I would be shocked if both Colin Firth
and Geoffrey Rush are not nominated for all sorts of awards Helena Bonham
Carter should get a nod for her performance as well.
Big Screen or Rental: Big screen for sure. Pomp looks
great enlarged.
Length: Two hours
LOBO HOWLS: 9
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