Saturday, January 29, 2011

FRIDAY FLICK: The King's Speech *****

AMAZING!!!  The deeply moving story of the man who reluctantly became King George VI (father of Queen Elizabeth II, played by Colin Firth). Our images of the privileges of royalty are shattered as we experience the pain and humilation of a quiet man with a debilitating speech impediment.

He wrestles with a word; our heart breaks. He stammers and stutters; we hold our breath. He barks his word forth like an engine backfiring; we sigh with relief.

It's difficult to imagine that so much anxiety and suspense could be built over something so simple as sound and close-ups of faces. Yet it is true.



This is not just an historical narrative. It is a story of courage, perseverance, and most of all:  love. I was touched by the devotion of Elizabeth to her husband, Prince Albert, Duke of York (King George VI). I enjoyed the marital comfort of the Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush playing the unorthodox Australian speech therapist) and his wife. And was pleased with the deepening friendship between King and commoner.

Beautifully acted. Sensitively portrayed.

And I want that wallpaper!

May courage surround you,


Catherine

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