Review: The King's Speech (2010, Dir. Tom Hooper)

Behind every great man: Colin Firth as King George the VI in The King's Speech.

The King's Speech--Classical without feeling dated, Tom Hooper's The King's Speech is an incredible piece of work that mixes traditional storytelling with innovative cinema. It's comfortingly familiar and refined while also surprisingly funny and touching. Colin Firth leads a brilliant ensemble as King George VI, who replaces his incompetent, womanizing brother (Guy Pearce, infinitely smug and stubborn) at the throne and is hampered by a frustrating stutter. Having to overcome his impediment to deliver countless war speeches, his wife (Helena Bonham Carter) hires Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush, a quirkly delight), a vocal therapist whose unorthodox but endearing ways empowers the King with confidence, skill, and heart. 

Firth gives his best, most layered and nuanced performance to date (showing even more range than he did in the compelling A Single Man) as King George VI, masking humanity and vulnerability with a whirlwind of emotions. Rush is equally brilliant as Logue, with touches of authentic sincerity and stubbornness that drive their heartwarming friendship and even the film's deft comedic elements. Speaking of humor, Carter is also terrific--she supplies the film with the funniest lines and scenes, while gracefully acting as the backbone of George with wit and determination. All three performances are full of depth and impact as they bring these historical figures to life with the most fascinating and endearing human qualities. Hooper's film on fragility and redemption is shot beautifully--the cinematography is breathtaking, and quite dynamic. In particular, his framing devices are especially unique as they vitalize the genre with unexpected energy. The last sequence is one of the best scenes of all year, with gorgeous shots and tremendous music. Hooper's film is delightful, uplifting, and touchingly empowering that showcases three of the best performances of the year. Rush and Carter are impeccable, but as for Firth, all hail the king. 


Grade: A