The Kings Speech

Rating 8 out of 10

I know what you are thinking here.  Either I have never heard of this movie or I bet it's boring.  That's probably what I would be thinking.  I don't usually go for the old England movies dealing with Kings and Queens and those that talk funny.  I have in the past thought Colin Firth was an over-actor but have been impressed with Geoffrey Rush.

The movie takes place in the 1930s when the King of England is dying.  The oldest son is unfit to be king as he marries an American woman who is twice divorced.  This leaves his younger brother who has had a dreadful stammer since childhood. This is at a time when radio is becoming popular and being able to atleast give a speech is a must.  He tries everyone until he is referred to Lionel Logue (Rush) who is off beat in his methods and not intimidated in the least by the Dukes title or position.

The movie quickly becomes a buddy film as the two become friends.  Many funny parts as the Duke is not used to being talked to in such a way. Your heart aches for him as he stutters thru his attempts at speeches and the embarrassment he and his family feels.

This builds to the first speech he must give as king is declaring war on Germany and Hitler.  The country is in great need of a leader they can get behind.  At the end of the movie people in my packed theater cheered.  I was right there with them.

This movie isn't playing on 3000 screens like many of the big name movies, but is well worth the search.  I predict either Firth or Rush will win the Oscar.