Saturday, May 14, 2011

Crowning achievement

Colin Firth entertains with his award-winning turn as a stammering heir to the throne in “The King’s Speech,” recalling King George VI’s long and arduous battle with a speech impediment, and his sometimes-shaky bond with his driven therapist (Geoffrey Rush).

While not as compelling and creatively crafted as its Oscar rival for best picture “The Social Network,” the Tom Hooper-directed “The King’s Speech” is solid and straightforward. This particular biopic’s focus on the fight to overcome personal barriers ingratiates, lack of narrative surprises notwithstanding. Exceptional performances by the small, brilliant cast inspire easy and rewarding viewing.

Helena Bonham-Carter manages to deliver a subdued and elegant performance as Elizabeth, the very supportive wife of the future king. The unending Tim Burton and “Harry Potter” film roles aren’t exactly her most subtle characters, but she makes us remember that she’s an incredibly versatile and gifted actress.

Firth and Rush’s characters share a fantastic rapport. Rush plays Lionel Logue, who has unrealized dreams, but he nevertheless has unyielding optimism and loyalty, a perfect foil to Firth’s struggling stutterer.

“The King’s Speech” is an Ayala Cinemas exclusive.

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