The King's Speech

The 1930's...what an interesting time in world history. FDR's New Deal helps America claw it's way out of the great depression and into a "dustbowl". Ghandi begins his Civil Disobedience movement in defiance of British rule of India. Hitler and Mussolini rise to power and pursue their territorial expansions. Radio becomes the dominant media and ushers in the "Swing Era". The Hindenburg goes down in flames in New Jersey. James Braddock defeats Max Baer and Jesse Owens frustrates Hitler at the Berlin Olympics. For the first time in history the King of England steps down from the throne to marry a twice divorced American woman who may or may not be a German spy.

Let's see....what can we make a movie about? Hmmm....I know! How about the story of a little known Royal with a speech impediment?

Albert Frederick Arthur George, more formally known as His Highness Prince Albert of York or Bertie to his closest friends and family, ascended the throne upon the abdication of his elder brother King Edward VIII. Bertie had been plagued with a "stammer" since childhood which made public speaking an embarrassing and mortifying experience. All the King's elocution coaches and speech therapists fail to help until his wife stumbles upon the unconventional Lionel Logue. The movie centers on the relationship of these two headstrong men.

You may have heard the Oscar buzz about Colin Firth's portrayal of the King but the other cast members give equally strong performances. Geoffrey Rush is excellent as the quirky speech coach and Helena Bonham Carter makes quite a believable Queen Consort. Guy Pearce seems to have been cast because of his resemblance to King Edward

and Timothy Spall is spot on with his portrayal of Winston Churchill.

Being unfamiliar with the works of director Tom Hooper, a bit of googling taught me that he directed one of my favorite HBO mini-series John Adams. His attention to detail and use of archived newsreel footage gives us a real sense of the times.

There is nothing about the cinematography that necessitates viewing on the big screen so this would be a perfect candidate for your Netflix queue.