The Kings Speech (2010)

The Kings Speach (2010) IMDB Link

Almost immediately after The Kings Speech was released it was being touted to win every award under the sun. The film was surrounded by hype with many calling it one of the best British films ever made. It’s nowhere near that level but credit must still be given to director Tom Hooper for managing to make a film about the British royal family not only tolerable but both interesting and entertaining.

The plot tells the part life story of King George VI, a man suffered terribly with a speech impediment from the age of four. It documents his rapid and unexpected rise to the throne and details the relationship between the King and his layman speech therapist who, despite his unorthodox methods, managed to greatly improve the Kings speech, so much so that he was able to make many radio speeches during World War 2 despite his debilitating condition.

What elevates The Kings Speech above the usual Royal Family dross is how well it’s written, the script really is top notch and provides both drama and plenty of humourous moments. The acting from all is excellent but Colin Firth as King George is outstanding, not only does he portray the speech impediment to perfection but also the sheer frustration and anger at not being able to speak correctly no matter how hard you try. The relationship between King George and his therapist (Geoffrey Rush) is very well done and is the backbone to the film. The climax is quite touching as George finally manages to make a speech as unhindered as he could hope and is a suitable ending for an uplifting film.

Technically excellent and with an interesting story, The Kings Speech pulls of the incredibly difficult task of making a Royal Family film seem interesting. It’s a good watch and quite funny but the actual plot isn’t exactly thrilling and although provides entertainment it is not a film you will ever feel the inclination to watch again. It’s certainly worth one watch though for Colin Firths excellent performance if for nothing else.

7/10

The Fighter (2010)

The Fighter (2010) IMDB Link

There is nothing quite like a boxing film when it comes to inspirational stories of someone working so hard to finally realise their dream. That film is even better when said story is based on a real life boxer such as the case with The Fighter, which tells the story of “Irish” Micky Ward and his family and just how he managed to become the WBU Light Welterweight champion.

The story is focused on the early years of Wards career and the drama surrounding his attempt to become World Champion. It tells of how he was very much in the shadow of his brother Dickie, who was known as the pride of Lowell having previously fought and knocked down Sugar ray Leonard. Dickie was a crack addict but was still Ward’s trainer for years before beings sent to prison but eventually makes it up to his brother to be in his corner for the fight than won him the title.

Even though Ward only retired in 2003 after three epic fights with Canadian Arturo Gatti, many people will not have known about him or his life. It’s certainly an interesting story, both his and his brother Dickie’s, and makes for entertaining viewing throughout. The script is wonderfully written as is surprisingly funny but also touching at times. The acting is fantastic, particularly Melissa Leo and Christian Bale as Dickie who both won Oscars for their roles. The boxing scenes are excellently shot and capture Ward’s toe to toe slugger style perfectly. Even though we all know the outcome of the story you can’t help but feel proud of Micky and Dickie when he finally wins that title.

The Fighter is both an excellent drama film dealing with drug addiction and family life as well as a top notch sports film about what it takes to become a boxing champion. It’s without doubt the best boxing film in a long time and up there with the best of the lot. It’s a must see film.

9/10