"The King's Speech" review: absolutely brilliant!

Went into this movie with only the expectations brought on by excellent critical reviews, very positive word of mouth, and multiple award nominations. You might think that would be more than enough and I definitely felt I'd enjoy the film. But what I found as the movie unspooled was something I didn't anticipate; for it to be unexpectedly funny, inspiring, and even suspenseful!

Colin Firth absolutely deserves the Oscar for Best Actor! He is outstanding in the role of King George VI whose stammer problem is almost a metaphor for his worrisome ascension to the throne during one of the most difficult eras in Britain's history. Geoffrey Rush's unorthodox Australian speech therapist brings much of the humor as well as unwavering afront to a royalty system he doesn't agree with. Helena Bonham Carter is also excellent as George's wife, Elizabeth. It's no surprise that all three of these remarkable actors have received such kudos for this movie because they're all extremely deserving of it.

One might think this plays like a Merchant Ivory movie, but is far from that staple and mold. The costumes, sets, and cinematography all surround the story perfectly and beautifully. And in one of the most harrowingly tense scenes, George VI must give his climactic speech to the British people that war with Germany is upon them. We were literally on the edge of our seats, nervously leaning forward in anticipation of this all-important moment. For all the recent movies that have included humongous action or chase scenes that try to thrill, here was a simple scene that took place in a small room with just two men facing one another, one giving a momentus speech on live radio, the other kindly but firmly coaching a somewhat nervous client who just happens to be King of England....and we were riveted!

I sincerely hope this wins Best Picture over "The Social Network" because it's just that much more of a better film. I am wholeheartedly adding it to the list of my absolute favorite movies of 2010!