Just before the 2011 Oscars event, I went to see one of the movies nominated for Best Picture. I had heard through word of mouth that “The King’s Speech” was a good film and so, on a whim, a friend and I went to see it. I was hoping for a good show and I must say I was not disappointed. It is one of those rare films that lives up to it's reputation. The film dominated the Oscars being nominated for twelve Academy Awards, winning four, including Best Picture, Best Director (Tom Hooper), Best Original Screenplay (David Seidler), and Best Actor in a Leading Role (Colin Firth).
Firth plays Prince Albert the Duke of York, and later (after ascending to the throne) King George VI. The film is set in England in the late 1920’s and 30’s leading up to the impending British conflict with Nazi Germany and Adolph Hitler. The basic characters and plot elements are true although many of the details of the film are altered for dramatic effect.
To summarize the plot, as Prince Albert, the Duke realizes that public speaking and radio broadcasts are emerging as an important responsibility for the monarchy. This is a problem since he possesses a horrendous "peach inspediment". So he reluctantly employs the help of an unconventional speech therapist named Lionel Logue from Australia (played by Geoffrey Rush, known by many for his portrayal of Captain Barbossa in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” films).
A friendship between the two men develops, reminding me of the relationship that Matt Damon and Robin Williams portrayed in the 1997 film “Good Will Hunting”. Although Logue is not a psychiatrist as Williams was in GWH, he gives off the same kind of unorthodox vibe. And although Prince Albert’s world is a universe apart from Matt Damon’s Will Hunting, they are both damaged men in need of repair.
After his father’s death, and his brother’s abdication of his right to the throne, the weight of the entire Monarchy is suddenly thrust on Albert’s shoulders. He is shortly thereafter crowned King George VI of England. It is at this point where the tension in the film builds and the King’s relationship with his friend and therapist is tested. In the end, the friendship prevails and the King must prepare for a national speech to unite and inspire the British people as war with Germany becomes a foregone conclusion.
What I loved about the film was the story of how a stammering British monarch overcame his fear and insecurity to help his nation rise up to meet the challenge of confronting the threat of war. History tells us that England at that time was weak. Prime Minister Chamberlain had routinely conceded to Germany’s demands in order to avoid getting involved in the war. But now when the conflict was unavoidable, the nation needed a strong leader to rally them together.
Unfortunately, the Prime Minister was the essence of weakness, and the other British symbol of power--the Monarchy--was recovering from controversy and presently in the hands of an unproven stammering potentate. Winston Churchill was in the wings, but the nation needed someone at that moment to help them find their “voice”--to realize who they were and what they stood for in a time of crisis.
Throughout the movie, Firth’s character displayed a remarkable perseverance in overcoming his speech problems. It was evident that Logue believed in him and consistently spurred him to triumph over his impediment. This was important because life growing up in the royal family was so lonely for Albert that when told by Logue “That’s what friends are for”, the King replied, “I wouldn’t know.” As sad and lonely as growing up a royal was, the King desperately needed a confidant that he could trust--someone who would challenge him, strengthen him, and lead him on a path of self-improvement.
The movie expertly portrayed a growing friendship between the two men. It reminded me of my own life and those who have stood by me in facing my challenges. How I have appreciated their support, prayers and encouragement. And in light of that, it has forced me to ask: Who am I taking under my wing and helping to find their “voice”?
Every one of us has issues to confront and obstacles to overcome. It is almost impossible to face the challenges of life alone. We need others who will believe in us, give us the benefit of the doubt, and not give up on us. And each of us needs to look for others in need of support and encouragement. We all need to find our “voice” and assist others in doing the same.
