The King's Speech (2011)

With first rate performances from a star cast, gorgeous period piece The King's Speech is one of the most entertaining films of the year. The story follows Prince George (Colin Firth), known as Bertie to his loved ones, who has been afflicted by a stammer since he was a young boy. When his brother (Guy Pearce) decides not to be king and a war looming, he reluctantly turns to Aussie speech therapist Lionel (Geoffrey Rush) to help him. Lionel's methods are unconventional but seem to get the job done.

Because Prince George suffers from a major speech impediment, he wishes to stay out of the spotlight which works well as his brother, Edward, seems happy to take all the attention. It's only when their father, King George V (Michael Gambon) passes away, that Edward decides to Abdicate the throne for the woman he loves. Of course Edward's abdication clears the way for the very reluctant George to become King. The King's Speech came totally out of the blue. Yes, there was talk of Oscars long before it came out, but know one thought it'd be this good. At the time, Tom Hooper's film looked no more then a well spoken period drama that would be a good watch on a Sunday afternoon. But after a few screenings, people started talking. It went on to win a stack load of awards including what seems like every best male award going for the fantastic Colin Firth.

The King's Speech stands out as something to which everyone can relate, whether that be about family and friendship or facing up to challenges that life sometimes throws at you. But why is it so good? For starters Tom Hooper and his screenwriter David Seider have made what other directors and writers have failed to do so many times which is to make a English period drama approachable for people of all ages. The script also has great humour and lets the actors bounce and battle off each other with great affect.

The best scenes in the film are when Lionel is working with Bertie at his office. You can sense that Bertie is out of his comfort zone but Lionel gets him to roll around the floor, swing his arms like a monkey and say the F-word numerous times. These scenes are so special because it truly shows Firth and Rush at their very best. It's s shame Rush missed out on the awards as both he and Firth give two of the best performances your likely to see all year. They are also well-supported by Helena Bonham Carter (who won a Bafta), Michael Gambon, Guy Pearce and Derek Jacobi.

As we know, The King's Speech is based on a true story, so what starts off as a man trying to find his way in life turns into a story that has gone into the history books, with an ending that is only just the beginning of troubled times, not just for Britain, but for the entire world.

The King's Speech is a magnificent movie and one of the best pictures you'll see all year. It's engaging and entertaining and not just for people who like their tea in a cup and saucer.