The King's Speech (2011)

Well here we are. After a long wait, many trailers and an overuse of the word 'Academy', 'The King's Speech' is finally with us. Expectations were very high going into this. After all, it has a stellar cast and an extraordinary story that couldn't possibly fail, right? Join me as we walk the red carpet and see if it truly deserves the royal treatment.

I can't quite remember the exact date I first heard about Tom Hooper's period drama. But I do know, the buzz surrounding it was huge, even all those months ago. The problem with a speeding hype train, of course, is the impending explosion that erupts if it fails to reach it's intended destination (you, the audience). Thankfully, you're in safe hands with Hooper, Firth, Rush and the rest of the cast.

'The King's Speech' meticulously explains the true story of King George VI (formerly the Duke of York), played by Colin Firth. His stammer causes him great problems, especially during public speeches so he seeks help with a therapist (Geoffrey Rush). From here the two build up a powerful relationship which culminates in the most important speech the King will give.

Hooper's drama is an actor's film through and through. This is the very reason it stirred so much attention before the Oscars. Firth, Rush, Bonham Carter, Gambon - it's a tour de force of the best in the business. Firth is fantastic throughout playing a very difficult role which requires great timing (due to the stammer). And my money is on Rush to win Best Supporting Actor for his role as Lionel Logue. He gives one of the finest performances I've witnessed in modern cinema. There's actually not a single negative point I can make about 'The King's Speech'. The acting is sublime, the story is well crafted. I felt genuine shivers watching Firth deliver the final speech. It's also worth noting that Hooper brings a tremendous amount of humour to an otherwise, very serious script.

Now perhaps 'The King's Speech' is the obvious choice at the Oscars. And that would be right on the mark. But when it's this good, surely that's not a bad thing. No matter what happens in February, I think Hooper and the rest of the cast deserve a standing ovation and a truly regal reception.