"The King's Speech"

Magnificent! Brilliant in every aspect, including a superb cast, excellent photography, with marvelous and demanding dialogue (including surprisingly necessary profuse profanity) delivered flawlessly. This intelligent film, masterfully directed by Tom Hopper deserves the highest praise. It's based on the true story of the abdication of the British throne by Edward VIII (perfectly played by Guy Pearce) so he could marry "the woman I love" (American divorcee, Wallace Simpson), and how his younger brother, the reluctant heir, known as"Bertie" to his intimates (in an Oscar worthy performance by Colin Firth), becomes King George VI, overcoming a debilitating and embarrassing stutter with the help of unorthodox Australian speech therapist, Lional Logue, in an equally Oscar worthy performance by Geoffrey Rush. I was amazed and pleased to see Helena Bonham Carter reveal what a fine actress she is, appearing throughout as Bertie's loving and supportive wife. (What relief to see her playing something other than some half-crazed, wild-haired character). Having reviewed the fine documentary about Winston Churchill not long ago, it was interesting to see him in the context of the historic events of this film. "The King's Speech" had me, and the rest of the appreciative audience laughing, as well as moved to tears; it was simply stunning! (Personal note: Ladies, if you're not already in love with Colin Firth, I think you will be after seeing this thrilling movie!) Twice FOUR STARS!