The entire movie is a perfect blend of history, personal and familial drama, with broader themes of perseverance and overcoming adversity which give it a timeless application. Other more minor roles are effectively played (e.g., Winston Churchill, George V). I should add that Helena Bonham-Carter is also spot-on as the haughty yet practical queen consort. Ultimately a true friendship develops between the men, and since they are both such endearing characters, it's a joy to watch. Firth is brilliant as the aloof, initially reluctant and distrustful monarch, while Rush shows the same wink-of-the-eye humor and irony that he did as Barbossa, relishing the sheer inequality of their positions yet knowing the extent to which George is dependent on him. ![]() Both actors are at the absolute top of their form. But the heart of the movie is the relationship between George and Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), who is helping him overcome his speech problems. Edward is typically romanticized and lionized, but here we see him as more of a spoiled, selfish lout. overcoming one's worst fears on behalf of your people and country. It's the clash between duty and hedonism, fulfilling one's personal quest for happiness vs. The contrast between George and Edward VIII is most fruitful. It's a psychoanalytical look at a well-known royal family, and while I can't vouch for its absolute veracity, it gives a rare glimpse into the lives of people we wouldn't otherwise observe at this level of intimacy (much like "Queen" did a few years ago). The story line is all about his stuttering, but underneath all that are suppressed memories from childhood, growing up in the shadow of an elder brother, perpetual negative reinforcement from a domineering father, etc. The story gives us a fascinating look into the struggles faced by George VI on his way to becoming king of England. ![]() Truly, there is no way to improve upon the achievement that this film represents, whether in casting, direction, writing, artistic value, you name it. I rarely rate a movie a "10" but in this case, it is well deserved. Reviewed by dbogosian-1 10 / 10 A touching, historical masterpiece ![]() An extraordinary friendship develops between the two men, as Logue uses unconventional means to teach the monarch how to speak with confidence.-Jwelch5742 Knowing that the country needs her husband to be able to communicate effectively, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter) hires Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), an Australian actor and speech therapist, to help him overcome his stammer. Britain's Prince Albert (Colin Firth) must ascend the throne as King George VI, but he has a speech impediment.
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