One wouldn’t think a two-hour film about a dead monarch’s speech impediment could be a captivating, amusing and inspirational story; “The King’s Speech,” however, is just that.

“The King’s Speech,” directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Seidler is a moving story about friendship and the triumph of the royal underdog.

Audiences will feel the pain and humiliation Bertie, the Duke of York (Colin Firth), struggles with as he tries to overcome his debilitating stammer with the help of an unorthodox speech therapist, Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush).

Firth brings the British monarch to life with his amazing rendition of the future king of England complete with the stammer and the pretentious attitude, while Rush allows for a laid back style that brings humor into the film.  They compliment each other perfectly, thanks in part to Seidler’s mesmerizing dialogue that is both humorous and emotional.

Helena Bonham Carter as the Duchess of York adds the right touch of uppity royal to make this an enjoyable excursion into the past.  With Danny Cohen’s breathtaking 1930s English backdrop, you will think you stepped into a time warp.

This movie is a roller coaster of emotions where people laugh out loud one moment and sit on the edge of their seats with fingers crossed for Bertie’s success the next.

5 out of 5 stars