One of the best things about this film is that it proves Helena Bonham Carter is an amazing actress and should not be limited to playing "crazy lady" roles.

Queen Elizabeth II reportedly found the film to be "moving and enjoyable." After a private screening at Sandringham, she gave the film her blessing and was reportedly amused by some of the lighter moments. She was even more impressed by Colin Firth's portrayal of her father.

Kings Speech, Darkest Hour, and Dunkirk are an unofficial trilogy in my head. 🙂

George VI is credited with helping to keep the morale of the British citizens up with his public speeches during WW2. He elected to stay in London during the bombings. He was beloved by most of his subjects. Great movie and wonderful performances.

Guy Pearce sounded EXACTLY like Edward in his abdication speech.

George VI was not supposed to be king, but he led his country through one of the darkest periods in history, and his daughter ended up having the longest reign in British history.

Jennifer Ehle who played the therapist's wife, had played Elizabeth Bennet opposite Colin Firth in the 1995 Pride and Prejudice TV show. When this movie came out, it represented the 1st screen reunion in 15 years of these actors beloved by a generation. The theater audience held their breath during this scene

The King's actual speech is one of the dvd extras

I couldn't imagine putting my biggest insecurity on public display for everyone on a daily basis.  This film is so well done and it's among my favorites.  It shows that people are still people, no matter the titles, ranks, adulations, or position they may hold.  And the importance of empathy.

The divorce thing is more about the king/queen being head of the church of England

King George the 6th is such an inspirational person.

Had a hard upbringing, wasn’t ready for the crown but in the end he became one of the best kings in history

And was named the voice of the rebellion during WW2

as a chronic stutterer this movie has personal meaning, thanks for reacting to it in light of of all the other films that could have been done

The very sad thing about his physician encouraging him to smoke to "calm the nerves" is that he got lung and throat cancer and had one of his lungs removed. Smoking was one of the factors in his health deteriorating until his death at the age of only 56.

The "happy ending" being the WW2 start may seem out of place, but the main character arc here is Bertie starting as a total failure to his family and at his low point in adult life, but then progressing to come out victorious over his limitations and becoming pretty much the most beloved British king. This really is a happy ending, as George VI and Churchill were two pivotal figures who helped the British public endure their spirit during the darkest hour (hehe) of WW2.

5:37 Correct. My mum was 15 when the King abdicated. She told me that in those days a stammer was seen as a sign of mental feebleness. That's why it was such a big deal.

Geoffrey Rush should have won a second Academy Award for this performance. He did all the heavy lifting in this film.

I love the random cat purring asmr from simone's mic

Another layer to add on: He was either the first or second King to have his words recorded and transmitted by radio. He wasn't just making a speech to people, he was speaking in front of the whole world. And one of the first Monarchs to do so.

My brother had a debilitating stutter when we were young. He left us too soon. I think of him fondly every time I watch this movie.

As a historian this film has my highest approval.  As a middling human being even more so.

a lot of people call this film oscarbait but i personally love it.
the whole bit where he swears to realize it stunts his stuttering is the best.