Recently, I saw a wonderful movie: The King’s Speech, directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Siedler. The movie begins with Prince George, played by Colin Firth, growing up with his brothers, who persistently agitate him and make fun of his speech impediment. As he grows up into a handsome prince, his stammer becomes more pronounced. This becomes a problem in his preparation for the throne when he is asked to make a speech. This is the story of how he gets the right kind of help and a new friendship.

Firth, who plays the son of King George V, acts as the most conservative character in the movie. Firth’s character is prominent, and he gives a very convincing performance. Firth’s, in combination with Helena Bonham Carter and Geoffrey Rush, makes the story work and fun to watch.

Bonham Carter, who plays the King’s wife, Elizabeth, does a great job of naturally falling into character, making her presence a real treat. She is beautiful and gleams against the muddy background scenes of the therapy walls. She breaks up the monotony of the movie with her understanding voice, but also knows how to use her authoritative voice when needed.

Lionel Logue, Rush, is an uncertified, unqualified and unorthodox therapist. He is the key figure that completes the cast. The two men, Lionel and George, are basically at the center of the story with a few funny and touching scenes. Rush commands the movie from the beginning, taking complete control of a prince who is spoiled and ungrateful. It is this tug of war that makes you curious if Rush is another expendable, flaky therapist, or the undiscovered superman that saves the day.

Each brother struggles to take responsibility as King George V’s health begins to fail. The brothers never seem to see eye-to-eye, and they have opposite views on how to run the country. In fact, George’s brother, played by Guy Pearce, misuses the power when crowned King for a short time. I thought the story was going to be heading in the wrong direction at this point. Guy Pearce is one of the actors that can play the evil brother any day. He is a great actor in this movie, and he shows how seriously he takes his work in the movie.

The film was shot inside the therapy room of Lionel’s office, which was dark, dreary and cold. Most of the scenes were very uninviting, to say the least. As the movie progressed, a kind of magical warmth began to saturate in a subtle way. The producers did the “warming up effect” very effectively, with vivid colors of the palace and costumes.

Overall, the story is very touching. The acting is well done and the story is well written. It takes a long time to warm up to the characters and understand the background of the royal family’s personal problems. The movie was very smooth and consistent; it kept my attention, making me look forward to the next scene. Besides being nominated for 14 Academy Awards, this is a fantastic movie for the whole family to enjoy. I give this movie a 9 out of 10 for its well-written story and acting. I highly recommend you see it soon too. The King’s Speech is in theaters now.