At the Movies with Fatwayne

I am definitely a fan of action / adventure / comedy / horror / musical films. Once in a while it is enjoyable and worthwhile to view a historical drama/period piece. This movie proved to be just what I needed to quench my yearning for something completely different. There were no car chases, no sex scenes and no violence. The movie earned its “R” rating from language, in particular, the “F” word. Now you will almost always hear me criticize the film makers for their profuse use of vulgarities but in this case it seemed entirely natural and a crucial part of curing our protagonist’s stuttering affliction. So I hereby forgive anyone involved in using this particular word!

The story concerns itself with the struggles of King George VI (Colin Firth) as he assumes his duties as the King of England. His particular problem is his debilitating stutter which all but renders him incapable of communicating with his people. He is, in fact, considered by many to be unfit to become King. We first meet him as Prince Albert the Duke of York delivering a speech to a large crowd with disastrous results. His spouse, the Duchess of York (Helena Bonham Carter) is determined to aid him and goes behind his back to locate a speech therapist. She finds Lionel Logue (Geoffery Rush) who has quite a few questionable but largely successful techniques at his disposal.

The two men ultimately become close friends despite the vast difference in their social status. The road to their lifelong friendship is not without its bumps, however. The interactions between these fine actors is what gives greatness to this film. The antagonist episodes which arise during their quest to arm the about to be King, Bertie (as he is known by his family), with an ability to speak effectively in public provides the audience with drama and amusement. There is added urgency in their quest since King George V dies and his successor, Bertie’s brother, is about to be crowned as King. He is not interested in his subjects and seems to be more concerned in partying and his mistress who is a divorced American named Wallis Simpson (Eve Best). All  of this is taking place as Britain is on the eve of war with Germany. Ultimately, the brother, Albert (Guy Pearce) decides to abdicate the throne in order to pursue his love interest.

This also happens to be the birth of modern radio and as the new King, Bertie must address the nation and fortify his people for the upcoming war. How he handles this situation and how he and Lionel Logue are able to pull off his “cure” is what caps this most interesting story.

As I previously stated, occasionally it is pleasurable to sit back, relax and enjoy a beautifully written, well produced and well acted film. This is how it was for me and I sincerely hope that you agree.

Rated  -  R  -

Fatwayne’s Rating   – -