I’m kicking into gear for future film reviews. It’s a nerve-wracking task, putting my opinions online. I usually refrain from doing so because I can be pretty harsh but I don’t like to alienate others or encourage discourse. So I thought I’d begin with a pretty favorable, straight-forward review. Disclaimer: Try not to take me or my opinions too seriously. Just remind yourself that I’m spouting nonsense about an industry that has made its billions from, essentially, playing make believe.

Synopsis: Colin Firth plays Albert, Duke of York, who suffers from a terrible stutter and employs the assistance of a unorthodox speech therapist (Geoffrey Rush) who helps Albert as he is on the verge of taking the throne during pre-WW II England.

Acting Grades:

Colin Firth: A+
- Honestly, did you expect anything less from this man? Firth has been impressing me since I first saw him in Valmont when I was thirteen. His portrayal as Prince Albert/King George VI is compelling and utterly realistic. His entire voice was transformed, not solely for the stutter alone, either, but for His Royal Highness’s every inflection. It would not surprise me in the least if Firth took home the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Geoffrey Rush: A+
- God, is there anything this man can’t do? I remember watching him in Shine and thinking, “Damn, is he brilliant.” My opinion has yet to waver. Rush is like a good cheese – he just gets better with age (and sexier, my silver fox huntresses *mrow*) He plays Lionel Logue, a wonderful speech therapist who genuinely cares and respects HRH and wants to help – without any illusions of grandeur by having a famous client. His emoting capabilities are subtle, realistic and seamlessly felt.

Helena Bonham-Carter: A
- Oh, goodness, Helena, you’re back! Welcome home, dear *HUGS* After years…years…of outrageous, bent from reality characters I am so relieved to see Bonham Carter back in a role that is reminiscent of her Merchant Ivory days. Don’t get me wrong – I dig the kooky she brings to the table – but there is only so much of the skewed, zany characters I can take before I just want to see a real person again. Helena brings a compassionate, witty and strong side to the eventual “Queen Mum”. Though refreshingly reserved, she stands out with her supporting role, without being HeLeNa BonHaM CarTeR – whEeeEEeeeEE! I was unbelievably impressed and I hope she wins her Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globes.

Criticism: I’ve no issues with this movie, which is surprising to even me because I usually have something to quibble over. Despite some rearranging of dates, from top to bottom, directing, editing, script, acting, score and all of the in between, this is a fabulous film that is going to keep the art house theatre’s packed all winter long.

The King’s Speech
Overall Story: A+
Execution: A+
Would I Recommend: Yes! Great flick for history buffs, fans of the actors, Royal Family enthusiasts, indie film fans, or anyone who just wants to see a well made, character driven story about people.
Would I Buy: It will only be a matter if my mother or I buy it first!
Can Your Mum Watch It: Shit, son. She’ll love it.