For those of you who are regular visitors to my blog, you'll know I have a real passion for film and love nothing more than visiting a cinema to watch a great movie. Well, yesterday I wasn't to be disappointed when I managed to grab a few hours out of my busy schedule to see Colin Firth in 'The Kings Speech'. Much to my surprise, and for the first time in ages, the cinema was completely full (an airline mans delight to see so many bums on seats!!!). Once the largely older audience had settled down (this was a matinee showing after all), and stopped rustling their bloody sweet wrappers the film started.This British masterpiece tells the story of King George VI, and his battle to overcome a stammer with the assistance of an Australian voice coach Lionel Logue (brilliantly played by Geoffrey Rush). From the very outset it is clear that the casting is nothing short of sublime! Without exception, each member of the cast delivers an outstanding performance, which blends together superbly to tell a little known story about the British Monarchy.
The film is full of touching moments, many of which occur between Colin Firth (Bertie - King George VI), and Helena Bonham Carter (Queen Elizabeth), who have an on-screen magnetism which is nothing short of stunning. Whilst Colin Firth and Helena Bonham Cater clearly excel, Geoffrey Rush stole the limelight for me personally. His characters complexity was delivered in a simple and fun way, which had you praying for his success and hoping for the Kings approval.
A combination of light and dark moments, inter twinned with a fair amount of humour make this a great film. The audience I sat with appeared to be feeling the highs and lows with the characters, which for me is the sign of brilliant acting!
If like me, you are a fan of great cinematography, superb dialogue, outstanding acting and historical reality this is without doubt one of the highlights of the 2011 cinema calendar, so make the effort to go and see it in your local cinema!
