The King's Speech

The King’s Speech (directed by Tom Hooper) is a solid, well-made film, with exceptional performances by Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush. It hits all the right emotional notes. It establishes a strong sense of time and place.

It can be summed up simply: King George VI employs and becomes friends with an unconventional speech therapist as he attempts to overcome a severe stutter. The story takes place in the years leading up to World War II.

What the film lacks is heft. The scope is self-consciously small against a large background. The only risk is embarrassment. Any actual danger is at a distant remove. Still, the film is like an old sweater. It’s quite comfortable.

Related link:
Oscar nominees for Best Picture for films from 2010