Review of The King's Speech

Wonderfully warm, funny and moving film that fully deserves the Oscars bestowed upon it.

Colin Firth shines as the publically mute Bertie, his performance a delicate mixture of Royal restraint and frustration. The moments when he tries to speak to the world are fraught with tension and pity, all quivering lips and helpless eyes. This immense control and self-discipline is wonderfully counterbalanced with scenes of him letting go whilst in therapy, screaming expletives into the air, singing and dancing to force his mouth into submission.

Geoffrey Rush as the lackadaisical speech therapist, Logue, is also phenomenal. His approach to the “Johnsons” from the off is friendly yet confrontational, refusing to conform to conventions of how to behave in a royal presence. The scenes featuring his failed attempts at acting are bittersweet and help flesh out a character who could seem pedantically cheerful almost to irritation.

His relationship with Bertie is beautifully portrayed as it moves from hostility, to resignation, to trust, and finally to pure friendship. There are no moments that seem false or laboured. And watching Bertie overcome his key radio speech announcing the Second World War to the nation is pure catharsis and joy.

The supporting cast are also on top form, featuring Helena Bonham-Carter and Timothy Spall as Churchill.

A delightfully open and emotional historical biopic that thankfully refrains from being dry and overly educational.