king's speech scene

Cast & crew
User reviews

The King's Speech

The story of King George VI, his unexpected ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer. The story of King George VI, his unexpected ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer. The story of King George VI, his unexpected ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer.

David Seidler
Colin Firth
Geoffrey Rush
Helena Bonham Carter
827 User reviews
486 Critic reviews
88 Metascore
108 wins & 206 nominations total

The King's Speech: International Trailer

King George VI

Lionel Logue

Queen Elizabeth

Archbishop Cosmo Lang

Private Secretary

BBC Radio Announcer

Robert Wood

BBC Technician

Dr. Blandine Bentham

Laurie Logue

Myrtle Logue

Valentine Logue
Anthony Logue

Princess Elizabeth

Princess Margaret

Theatre Director
All cast & crew
Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

Best Picture Winners by Year

More like this

Did you know

Trivia Nine weeks before filming began, Lionel Logue's grandson, Mark Logue , discovered a large box in his attic that contained his grandfather's personal papers. The box held Lionel Logue's diary, his appointment book, notes from his speech therapy sessions with King George VI , and over 100 personal letters to Logue from the King. It also contained what is believed to be the actual copy of the speech used by George VI in his 1939 radio broadcast announcing the declaration of war with Germany. Mark Logue turned his grandfather's papers, letters, and diary over to director Tom Hooper and screenwriter David Seidler , who used them to flesh out the relationship between Logue and the King. Geoffrey Rush and Colin Firth also read through the material for insight into their characters. The exchange in this movie between Logue and King George VI following his radio speech ("You still stammered on the 'W'." / "Well, I had to throw in a few so they knew it was me.") was taken directly from Logue's diary. Firth insisted that it should be included in the movie.
Goofs In the final speech, King George VI has one blue eye and one brown eye. Colin Firth had lost a contact lens.

King George VI : All that... work... down the drain. My own... b... brother, I couldn't say a single w-word to him in reply.

Lionel Logue : Why do you stammer so much more with David than you ever do with me?

King George VI : 'Cos you're b... bloody well paid to listen.

Lionel Logue : Bertie, I'm not a geisha girl.

King George VI : Stop trying to be so bloody clever.

Lionel Logue : What is it about David that stops you speaking?

King George VI : What is it about you that bloody well makes you want to go on about it the whole bloody time?

Lionel Logue : Vulgar, but fluent; you don't stammer when you swear.

King George VI : Oh, bugger off!

Lionel Logue : Is that the best you can do?

King George VI : [like an elocution lesson] Well... bloody bugger to you, you beastly bastard.

Lionel Logue : Oh, a public school prig could do better than that.

King George VI : Shit. Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit!

Lionel Logue : Yes!

King George VI : Shit!

Lionel Logue : Defecation flows trippingly from the tongue!

King George VI : Because I'm angry!

Lionel Logue : Do you know the f-word?

King George VI : F... f... fornication?

Lionel Logue : Oh, Bertie.

King George VI : Fuck. Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck and fuck! Fuck, fuck and bugger! Bugger, bugger, buggerty buggerty buggerty, fuck, fuck, arse!

Lionel Logue : Yes...

King George VI : Balls, balls...

Lionel Logue : ...you see, not a hesitation!

King George VI : ...fuckity, shit, shit, fuck and willy. Willy, shit and fuck and... tits.

Crazy credits In the end credit roll, Philip Clements is listed twice as Assistant Sound Editor.
Connections Featured in Breakfast: Episode dated 22 October 2010 (2010)
Soundtracks Le nozze di Figaro Overture Written by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart [During the first therapy session when King's voice is being recorded]

User reviews 827

JohnDeSando
Dec 17, 2010
Just what time frame are we talking about here?
What causes Bertie's stammer?
Why couldn't King Edward marry Wallis Simpson?
December 25, 2010 (United States)
United States
United Kingdom
Official Site
Nhà Vua Nói Lắp
Elland Road Football Stadium, Elland Road, Beeston, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England, UK (as Wembley Stadium at start of film)
The Weinstein Company
UK Film Council
Momentum Pictures
See more company credits at IMDbPro
$15,000,000 (estimated)
$138,797,449
Nov 28, 2010
$484,068,861

Technical specs

Runtime 1 hour 58 minutes
Dolby Digital

More to explore

Movie Reviews

Tv/streaming, collections, great movies, chaz's journal, contributors, the rain in sp…sp...sp....

Now streaming on:

"The King's Speech" tells the story of a man compelled to speak to the world with a stammer. It must be painful enough for one who stammers to speak to another person. To face a radio microphone and know the British Empire is listening must be terrifying. At the time of the speech mentioned in this title, a quarter of the Earth's population was in the Empire, and of course much of North America, Europe, Africa and Asia would be listening — and with particular attention, Germany.

The king was George VI. The year was 1939. Britain was entering into war with Germany. His listeners required firmness, clarity and resolve, not stammers punctuated with tortured silences. This was a man who never wanted to be king. After the death of his father, the throne was to pass to his brother Edward. But Edward renounced the throne "in order to marry the woman I love," and the duty fell to Prince Albert, who had struggled with his speech from an early age.

In "The King's Speech," director Tom Hooper opens on Albert ( Colin Firth ), attempting to open the British Empire Exhibition in 1925. Before a crowded arena and a radio audience, he seizes up in agony in efforts to make the words come out right. His father, George V ( Michael Gambon ), has always considered "Bertie" superior to Edward ( Guy Pearce ), but mourns the introduction of radio and newsreels, which require a monarch to be seen and heard on public occasions.

At that 1925 speech, we see Bertie's wife, Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter), her face filled with sympathy. As it becomes clear that Edward's obsession with Wallis Simpson (Eve Best) is incurable, she realizes her Bertie may face more public humiliation. He sees various speech therapists, one of whom tries the old marbles-in-the-mouth routine first recommended by Demosthenes. Nothing works, and then she seeks out a failed Australian actor named Lionel Logue ( Geoffrey Rush ), who has set up a speech therapy practice.

Logue doesn't realize at first who is consulting him. And one of the subjects of the film is Logue's attitude toward royalty, which I suspect is not untypical of Australians; he suggests to Albert that they get on a first-name basis. Albert has been raised within the bell jar of the monarchy and objects to such treatment, not because he has an elevated opinion of himself but because, well, it just isn't done. But Logue realizes that if he is to become the king's therapist, he must first become his friend.

If the British monarchy is good for nothing else, it's superb at producing the subjects of films. "The King's Speech," rich in period detail and meticulous class distinctions, largely sidesteps the story that loomed over this whole period, Edward's startling decision to give up the crown to marry a woman who was already divorced three times. Indeed, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor (as they became) would occupy an inexplicable volume of attention for years, considering they had no significance after the Duke's abdication. The unsavory thing is that Wallis Simpson considered herself worthy of such a sacrifice from the man she allegedly loved. This film finds a more interesting story about better people; Americans, who aren't always expert on British royalty, may not necessarily realize that Albert and wife Elizabeth were the parents of Queen Elizabeth II. God knows what Edward might have fathered.

Director Tom Hooper makes an interesting decision with his sets and visuals. The movie is largely shot in interiors, and most of those spaces are long and narrow. That's unusual in historical dramas, which emphasize sweep and majesty and so on. Here we have long corridors, a deep and narrow master control room for the BBC, rooms that seem peculiarly oblong. I suspect he may be evoking the narrow, constricting walls of Albert's throat as he struggles to get words out.

The film largely involves the actors Colin Firth, formal and decent, and Geoffrey Rush, large and expansive, in psychological struggle. Helena Bonham Carter, who can be merciless (as in the "Harry Potter" films), is here filled with mercy, tact and love for her husband; this is the woman who became the much-loved Queen Mother of our lifetimes, dying in 2002 at 101. As the men have a struggle of wills, she tries to smooth things (and raise her girls Elizabeth and Margaret). And in the wider sphere, Hitler takes power, war comes closer, Mrs. Simpson wreaks havoc, and the dreaded day approaches when Bertie, as George VI, will have to speak to the world and declare war.

Hooper's handling of that fraught scene is masterful. Firth internalizes his tension and keeps the required stiff upper lip, but his staff and household are terrified on his behalf as he marches toward a microphone as if it is a guillotine. It is the one scene in the film that must work, and it does, and its emotional impact is surprisingly strong. At the end, what we have here is a superior historical drama and a powerful personal one. And two opposites who remain friends for the rest of their lives.

Note: The R rating refers to Logue's use of vulgarity. It is utterly inexplicable. This is an excellent film for teenagers.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert was the film critic of the Chicago Sun-Times from 1967 until his death in 2013. In 1975, he won the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished criticism.

Now playing

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

Christy lemire.

The Animal Kingdom

Monica castillo.

Brian Tallerico

Carol Doda Topless at the Condor

Marya e. gates.

Little Wing

Film credits.

The King's Speech (2010)

Rated R for language

118 minutes

Directed by

David Seidler

Latest blog posts

Sonic the Hedgehog Franchise Moves to Streaming with Entertaining Knuckles

San Francisco Silent Film Festival Highlights Unearthed Treasures of Film History

Ebertfest Film Festival Over the Years

The 2024 Chicago Palestine Film Festival Highlights

an image, when javascript is unavailable

The King’s Speech

A stirring, handsomely mounted tale of unlikely friendship starring Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush.

By Peter Debruge

Peter Debruge

Chief Film Critic

‘The Three Musketeers – Part II: Milady’ Review: Eva Green Surprises in French Blockbuster’s Less-Than-Faithful Finale 5 days ago
‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ Review: Henry Cavill Leads a Pack of Inglorious Rogues in Guy Ritchie’s Spirited WWII Coup 1 week ago
‘Challengers’ Review: Zendaya and Company Smash the Sports-Movie Mold in Luca Guadagnino’s Tennis Scorcher 2 weeks ago

Americans love kings, so long as they needn’t answer to them, and no king of England had a more American success story than that admirable underdog George VI, Duke of York, who overcame a dreadful stammer to rally his people against Hitler. A stirring, handsomely mounted tale of unlikely friendship starring Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush , “The King’s Speech ” explores the bond between the painfully shy thirtysomething prince and the just-this-side-of-common, yet anything-but-ordinary speech therapist who gave the man back his confidence. Weinstein-backed November release should tap into the same audience that made “The Queen” a prestige hit.

Though hardly intended as a public service message, “The King’s Speech” goes a long way to repair decades of vaudeville-style misrepresentation on the subject of stuttering, which traditionally serves either for comic effect (think Porky Pig) or as lazy shorthand for a certain softness of mind, character or spine. Screenwriter David Seidler approaches the condition from another angle entirely, spotlighting a moment in history when the rise of radio and newsreels allowed the public to listen to their leaders, shifting the burden of government from intellect to eloquence.

These pressures are too much for Prince Albert (Firth), whose crippling speech impediment causes public embarrassment at 1925’s British Empire Exhibition. Director Tom Hooper (HBO’s “John Adams,” “The Damned United”) alternates between nervous Albert and the fussy yet professional BBC announcer in this opening scene to contrast one man dragged into public speaking with another who’d elected the bloody job for himself.

Popular on Variety

Albert’s father, King George V (authoritatively played by Michael Gambon), is no more fond of the wireless, but eventually embraces the device for a series of annual Christmas addresses. Though tough on his tongue-tied son, he views Albert as a more responsible successor than his reckless brother Edward (Guy Pearce), who indeed will famously renounce the throne to marry American socialite Wallis Simpson ( Eve Best ). But George V fears the stammer is unbefitting the throne. “In the past, all a king had to do was wear a uniform and not fall off his horse,” he laments.With responsibility for the crown looming, Albert’s wife Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter, in her most effectively restrained performance since “The Wings of the Dove”) seeks out the services of Lionel Logue (Rush), a frustrated Australian actor turned speech therapist. As portrayed by Rush, Logue is what some politely call a “force of nature” — all bluster, no tact, yet incredibly effective in his unconventional approach, rejecting the institutional thinking of the time in favor of vocal exercises and amateur psychotherapy.

While Seidler cleverly uses the prince’s handicap as a point of entry, “The King’s Speech” centers on the rocky connection that forms between Bertie (as the speech therapist calls the prince) and Lionel, whose extraordinary friendship arises directly from the latter’s insistence on a first-name, equal-to-equal dynamic quite unlike anything the Duke of York had previously encountered. Though few would deem it scandalous today, the film rather boldly dares to humanize a figure traditionally held at arm’s length from the public and treated with divine respect, deriving much of its humor from the brusque treatment the stuffy monarch-to-be receives from the irreverent Lionel (including a litany of expletives sure to earn the otherwise all-ages-friendly film an R rating).

While far from easy, both roles provide a delightful opportunity for Firth and Rush to poke a bit of fun at their profession. Firth (who is a decade older than Albert-cum-George was at the time of his coronation, and a good deal more handsome) has used the “stammering Englishman” stereotype frequently enough before, in such films as “Pride and Prejudice” and “A Month in the Country.” Here, the affliction extends well beyond bashful affectation, looking and sounding more like a man drowning in plain air as his face swells and his throat clucks, yet no words come out. Rush’s character, meanwhile, is that most delicious of caricatures, a recklessly bad actor whose shortcomings are embellished by someone who clearly knows better.

On the surface, Rush appears to have the showier of the two parts. But the big scenes are indisputably Firth’s, with two major speeches bookending the film (the latter one being the 1939 radio broadcast with which King George VI addressed a nation entering into war with Germany) and a surprisingly candid confession at roughly the midway point (in which Albert reveals the abusive treatment that likely created his stammer in the first place).

Hooper, who nimbly sidestepped the pitfalls of the generic sports movie in “The Damned United,” proves equally spry in the minefield of blue-blood biopics by using much the same m.o. — focusing on the uncommonly strong bond between two men (the director reunites with Timothy Spall here as a rather comical-looking Winston Churchill). Another repeat collaborator, production designer Eve Stewart, re-creates both royal digs and Logue’s wonderfully disheveled atelier, while Alexandre Desplat’s score gives the film an appropriate gravitas.

Production: A Weinstein Co. (in U.S.) release presented with U.K. Film Council of a See-Saw Films/Bedlam production in association with Momentum Pictures, Aegis Film Fund, Molinare, FilmNation Entertainment. Produced by Iain Canning, Emile Sherman, Gareth Unwin. Executive producers, Geoffrey Rush, Tim Smith, Paul Brett, Mark Foligno, Harvey Weinstein, Bon Weinstein. Co-producers, Peter Heslop, Simon Egan. Co-executive producers, Deepak Sikka, Lisbeth Savill, Phil Hope. Directed by Tom Hooper. Screenplay, David Seidler.
Crew: Camera (color), Danny Cohen; editor, Tariq Anwar; music, Alexandre Desplat; music supervisor, Maggie Rodford; production designer, Eve Stewart; art director, Leon McCarthy; set decorator, Judy Farr; costume designer, Jenny Beavan; sound, John Midgley; re-recording mixer, Paul Hamblin; supervising sound editor, Lee Walpole; special effects supervisor, Mark Holt; visual effects supervisor, Tom Horton; line producer, Peter Heslop; associate producer, Charles Dorfman; assistant director, Martin Harrison; second unit camera, Matt Kenzie; casting, Nina Gold. Reviewed at Aidikoff screening room, Beverly Hills, Sept. 1, 2010. (In Telluride Film Festival; Toronto Film Festival -- Gala Presentations; London Film Festival -- Gala.) Running time: 118 MIN.
With: King George VI - Colin Firth Lionel Logue - Geoffrey Rush Queen Elizabeth - Helena Bonham Carter King Edward VIII - Guy Pearce Winston Churchill - Timothy Spall Archbishop Cosmo Lang - Derek Jacobi Myrtle Logue - Jennifer Ehle Stanley Baldwin - Anthony Andrews Queen Mary - Claire Bloom Wallis Simpson - Eve Best King George V - Michael Gambon

More From Our Brands

Supreme court to decide if states can ban one specific type of emergency care, this extravagant l.a. mega-mansion is heading to auction next month, nfl draft houses open doors to offseason sponsorship haul, be tough on dirt but gentle on your body with the best soaps for sensitive skin, seinfeld still ‘a bit’ bothered by series finale, says mad men’s was ‘greatest’, verify it's you, please log in.

The King's Speech

R | biographical dramas | 1 HR 59 MIN | 2010

When his brother abdicates, George VI reluctantly dons the crown. Though his stutter soon raises concerns about his leadership skills, King George VI turns to an unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue, and the two forge a friendship.

International edition
Australia edition
Europe edition

The King's Speech – review

S ome films are known as "game-changers". This is not one of those films. It is a don't-change-the-game-er, or yet a jolly-well-change-it-back-er: a traditionally mounted, handsomely furnished British period movie, available at a cinema near you in dead-level 2D. Set in the 1920s and 30s, it is populated by that sort of well-suited patrician Englishman of yesteryear who drinks spirits in the middle of the day, whose middle and index fingers are rarely to be seen without an elegant cigarette interposed, and who pronounces the word "promise" as "plwomise" (try it).

Written by David Seidler and directed by Tom Hooper, The King's Speech is a richly enjoyable, instantly absorbing true-life drama about the morganatic bromance between introverted stammerer King George VI and his exuberant Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue: an affair brokered by George's shrewd wife in her pre-Queen-Mum incarnations as the Duchess of York, and then Queen Elizabeth. These characters are performed with pure theatrical gusto by Colin Firth as the miserably afflicted monarch, Geoffrey Rush as the twinkly eyed speech coach and Helena Bonham Carter as the Queen who has to learn to like Logue by overcoming her own snobbery – which she incidentally never troubles to disguise as shyness.

As well as this, the movie is an intriguing, if slightly loaded new perspective on the abdication crisis of 1936. Above all, it's a smart anti-Pygmalion. Like Shaw's Eliza Doolittle, the poor King as a younger man is forced to speak with his mouth full of marbles, and comes close to Eliza's fate of swallowing one.

But where she had to smarten up and talk proper, George VI (formerly the Duke of York, always known as "Bertie") has to move in the other direction: he has to loosen up, be less formal, less clenched, less clinically depressed. The movie cleverly casts a new light on the dysfunctional tremor at the heart of Britain's royal family, and cheekily suggests there was a time when a British monarch experimented with psychoanalysis, disguised as speech therapy.

Firth's face is a picture of misery in the opening scene, under his top hat, as if attending his own funeral. It is his first public appearance, required to speak through a microphone to vast crowds at the empire exhibition at Wembley stadium, and via live radio to the nation. His stammer means he can hardly get a word out, and the nation cringes with embarrassment. His formidable father, played by Michael Gambon with England's gruffest beard, makes clear to him that this is a new media age. It's not just a matter of looking frightfully regal on a horse, the monarch has to be able to master the radio microphone. Spectacle must not be replaced by dead air.

This is where Lionel Logue comes in – a bullish Australian with bohemian manners and shabby premises on Harley Street. He is a failed actor who is everywhere patronised as a colonial, especially by the toffee-nosed English theatrical types for whom he still hopefully auditions. We see him trying out for an amateur company by doing Richard III's "winter of our discontent" soliloquy. (Might Hooper and Seidler have considered making Logue do the "popinjay" speech by Hotspur from Henry IV Part One – the Shakespeare character traditionally played as a stammerer? Too obvious?) In his script, Seidler creates sharp exchanges as Logue fearlessly barges through the pompous royal formality that's all part of the problem, cheerfully deriding his previous medical advisers: "They're all idiots!" "They've been knighted!" splutters Bertie. "Makes it official then, doesn't it?" Slowly, Bertie opens up to his new friend about his unhappy childhood, and doesn't notice how his speech is improving.

The crisis comes when Logue gets too close to his patient, and Rush shows how "red carpet fever" is getting the better of him: he even affects some anti-colonial hauteur in dismissing the ambitions of Edward's mistress, Mrs Simpson, scoffing at the idea of "Queen Wallis of Baltimore".

Meanwhile, the abdication means poor, stuttering Bertie has to shoulder the ultimate burden while "Herr Hitler" is whipping up the stormclouds of war. The nation needs a king who can rally the forces of good in a clear, inspiring voice. Are Bertie and Lionel up to the job?

As well as the three leads, there are two tremendous supporting turns: Guy Pearce is a terrific Edward, the smooth, obnoxious bully who mocks Bertie's stammer and, marooned in Sandringham, yearns for phone sex with Mrs Simpson – what he ickily calls "making our own drowsies". Gambon has two great scenes as George V: first as the robust patriarch, barking orders at his quailing son, and then – the sudden decline is a modest coup du cinéma – incapable and on the verge of dementia, mumbling and maundering as his privy councillors make him sign away his executive responsibility.

Not everyone's going to like this film: some may find it excessively royalist and may, understandably, feel that it skates rather too tactfully over Bertie and Elizabeth's initial enthusiasm for appeasement and Neville Chamberlain. In this version, Chamberlain hardly features at all – we appear to pass directly from Stanley Baldwin's resignation to the sudden appearance of First Lord of the Admiralty Winston Churchill, jowl-quiveringly, sinew-stiffeningly played by Timothy Spall – always giving advice and apparently permitted to wield a lit cigar in the sovereign's presence. But The King's Speech proves there's fizzing life in old-school British period dramas – it's acted and directed with such sweep, verve, darting lightness. George VI's talking cure is gripping.

Colin Firth
Helena Bonham Carter
Drama films
Period and historical films

More on this story

The King's Speech flies the flag for a stiff upper lip that no longer exists

The King's Speech: an emotionally stirring Oscar magnet

The King's Speech rules Toronto film festival

Could Colin Firth's King's Speech become one of Oscar acceptance?

The King's Speech – review

Colin Firth has left his posh acting peers in the dust. Give him the Oscar for The King's Speech now

The King's Speech: How George VI's simple domesticity made him the king his country needed in time of war

The King's Speech: How clever sets create a compelling picture of 1930s London

Comments (…), most viewed.

The True Story Behind "The King's Speech"

"The King's Speech" is a 2010 dramatic biographical film, recounting the friendship between King George VI of England and his Australian speech therapist, Lionel Logue. The film also covers Edward VIII's 1936 abdication, and George VI's subsequent coronation and shouldering of responsibility during World War II. George VI ultimately must conquer his stammer to assist and guide Britain during the war.

As a film, "The King's Speech" takes a few liberties with the historical timeline and in regards to simplifying certain characters. One element historians took particular umbrage with was the depiction of Winston Churchill . However, overall it is fairly faithful to the historical record. For one thing, George VI really did have a speech impediment since the age of eight, and Lionel Logue did work with him for several years. They did stay friends until they both died. Certain scenes, such as George VI's coronation, were praised for their accurate recapturing of the feel of the 1930s.

The main concept the film changed was simply adding drama to certain scenes, such as the speech announcing war with Germany towards the end. It also condensed the historical timeline significantly, shortening events. This was mostly done for the sake of keeping the narrative moving. Overall, however, " The King's Speech " is a fairly accurate, heartwarming rendering of George VI and Lionel Logue's friendship.

Prince Albert had a stutter as a child

Prince Albert, later George VI, developed a stutter when he was eight that he carried through to his early adult life. His parents were not terribly affectionate with him, and he was susceptible to tears and tantrums – traits he also carried through his adult years, writes Biography . Given that many of his public duties required speeches, Albert needed to – and worked tirelessly – to fix his stammer with multiple doctors and therapists, writes Stuttering Help . He wasn't successful with any speech therapies until he worked with elocutionist and informal speech therapist Lionel Logue, beginning in the 1920s.

When Logue saw the then-Duke of York give a speech, he said to his son, "He's too old for me to manage a complete cure. But I could very nearly do it. I'm sure of that." (via Stuttering Help ). He was right, and his positive attitude helped the duke recover from previous failures that had made him believe the problem caused him to be mentally deficient instead of simply physically injured. Despite how long they worked together, the duke's speech issues had more to do with how held his jaw and pronounced words; the result was that his stammer was mainly cleared up in a matter of months as opposed to years.

Lionel Logue was a self-taught speech therapist

Lionel Logue was an Australian speech therapist who, not being formally trained, used methods he had discovered and created on his own. He worked as an elocutionist first, but fell into helping Australian World War I veterans with speech defects, writes The ASHA Leader . No one else was doing what he was with the veterans, and speech therapy and audiology programs didn't even get off the ground until the 1940s (via UNC Health Sciences Library ). Logue was even a founder of the College of Speech Therapists.

Just before World War I, Logue worked a variety of jobs as a teacher of elocution and drama, theater manager, and reciter of Shakespeare and Dickens (via Speech Language Therapy's Caroline Bowen, a speech language pathologist ). Logue worked with patients on their speech, but also on confidence and the self-belief that they could accomplish what they set out to do. He was empathetic with his patients, and learned from each case he worked on. Logue originally tried out as an actor, and as a result, his manner was somewhere between a teacher and an artist. He was serious about his life's work and resolved to avoid cheapening it by writing a book about his efforts with the king.

Logue began working with Prince Albert in 1926

Elizabeth, the Duchess of York, first encouraged her husband to work with Lionel Logue, though the meeting as depicted in the film between Elizabeth and Logue likely didn't happen (via Logue and Conradi's "The King's Speech" ). Logue thus began working with the Duke of York in October 1926, soon after he opened his London practice on Harley Street. Logue first diagnosed the Duke with, according to CNN , acute nervous tension and the habit of closing the throat, which caused him to clip words out.

Logue met with him daily for the next two or three months (in advance of a visit to Australia), and his stammer was gone (for the most part) within that time frame; it didn't take years of treatment (via Speech Language Therapy ). Unlike in the film, in reality, the Duke and Logue weren't necessarily aiming for complete fluency. However, they did continue to work together for the next two decades, mainly on the royal's speeches.

Logue worked with Albert for over 15 years

Though the film condenses the timeline to make it seem as though everything takes place over just a few years, Logue and Albert worked together for decades (via CNN ). "The King's Speech" begins in 1925 with the close of the British Empire Exhibition, which would be historically accurate, but time simply speeds by until the film depicts the abdication of Edward VIII in 1936 and later the outbreak of war in 1939 in just a few hours; it doesn't really feel as though a decade and a half have passed.

Regardless, Logue and the duke worked together on speeches even after the duke had mostly mastered his stammer. Lionel Logue's methods were unorthodox and primarily self-taught. He never specifically said what course of treatment he worked on with the duke, saying, according to The ASHA Leader : "...on the matter of Speech Defects, when so much depends on the temperament and individuality, a case can always be produced that can prove you are wrong. That is why I won't write a book." Much of the ideas for the therapy sessions depicted in the film come from Logue's diaries (though plenty of the dialogue was invented), which were inherited by his grandson Mark. They were used in the film, though the director only saw them late in the film's production.

Any sort of therapy is inherently individual, not to mention personal (via Psychiatric Times ). It's no wonder that Logue decided to avoid writing about his work.

Wallis Simpson was a more complex person than the film indicates

King Edward VIII was crowned in January 1936 and abdicated in December of the same year in order to marry Wallis Simpson , who had been twice divorced (via History ). His younger brother was proclaimed king the next day. The film is sympathetic to George VI and Elizabeth, and Wallis Simpson is cast as a vaguely Nazi-supporting villain; there is little depth to her character. However, her life and motivations were shrouded in rumors from the British upper classes and the media.

The upper classes, who learned about the Edward-Wallis romance before the British media, in particular saw her as an uncouth American divorcee, and had a hard time figuring out why Edward wanted to be with her. When the media did find out, in December 1936, she was both ruined and revered by them, according to History Extra . However, after moving overseas more-or-less permanently she faded from the spotlight. Her unfortunate reputation from the nobles stuck with her.

Ultimately, George VI didn't allow his brother and sister-in-law, who had moved to France, to be productive for the royal family; they asked multiple times for jobs and were denied (via History Extra ). Awful rumors followed Wallis Simpson even past her death in the 1980s, including one that stated she would do anything to become queen of England. Though it's clear both on and off screen that she and Elizabeth disliked each other, Wallis was more than a king-stealing villain.

Churchill was actually opposed to Edward VIII's abdication

One major element of the film that historians had trouble with is Churchill's abrupt support of George VI, writes Daily History . In real life, he encouraged Edward VIII not to abdicate in 1936, and remained a supporter of the royal, believing something could be worked out without having to resort to abdication. George VI and Elizabeth didn't fully support Churchill later in life due to his actions during the abdication. However, Churchill was later knighted by Elizabeth II (via Biography ).

This element is likely written as such for the film due to the writers having a hard time writing someone as beloved as Churchill with actual flaws. The writers of "Saving Mr. Banks" had a similar issue with Walt Disney and his flaws. As a result, it is one of the only concrete historical aspects that left historians scratching their heads in confusion. Everything else that is changed in the film is mainly done for the sake of adaptation, drama, and the good of the narrative. This change seems to be for the sake of preserving Churchill's reputation. Considering the film's lead-up of events to World War II, and Churchill's role in Britain's survival, it isn't that surprising.

King George VI's coronation was less fraught than the film depicts

Logue worked with George VI on his coronation speech in 1937. Five days afterward, the king wrote a heartfelt thank you letter for the assistance (via Tatler ), attributing the success to Logue's "expert supervision and unfailing patience." Just as in the film, Logue and his wife are seated in the royal box, so high up that Myrtle Logue needed to use opera glasses in order to see, writes CNN .

However, by this time, the king had mostly mastered his speech impediment, and the dramatic scene in the film with Logue and St. Edward's chair is likely fictional. It was written for the sake of the narrative of George VI realizing he does have a voice. Reality isn't necessarily so cinematic, and after weeks of working on the speech with Logue, George VI delivered it flawlessly. Regardless, according to Daily History , the film accurately conveys the atmosphere of the 1930s and the coronation of a new king. In reality, the king and Logue likely didn't have the same miscommunication as they do in the film, and it is doubly heartwarming that Logue and his wife were seated with the royal family, just because of the services Logue had rendered the new king.

Logue was more deferential to his royal patient

Geoffrey Rush's portrayal is much more animated than Logue likely was in reality. Logue certainly addressed Prince Albert respectfully, and the scenes of swearing in Logue's office are likely invented. Logue also never referred to the prince by a nickname, much less one used exclusively by the family. They were friends in real life, but their relationship was more realistically distant.

According to CNN , the letters Logue wrote to the king are addressed to "Your Royal Highness". On the other hand, the king signed his letters with his first name, indicating a measure of friendship between the two men. Logue also apparently allowed George VI to set treatment goals due to his position. Though they did end up being friends, Logue never forgot who exactly his patient was, and treated him accordingly (via Daily History ). Historical films always add heart-to-heart speeches between people which probably never actually happened but work for the sake of drama and the narrative. "The King's Speech" is no exception.

The speech announcing war with Germany was less dramatic

Lionel Logue further assisted George VI during the 1939 speech when he announced Britain was at war with Germany. However, Logue wasn't actually in the room with him, as the film depicts, and only wrote notes on places for the king to pause to collect himself when speaking or on which words to stress, according to CNN . Keep in mind that by this point in time, 13 years after meeting Logue, the king had essentially mastered his stammer. George VI also stood to give the speech, though photographs show him in full military uniform and sitting down.

Lionel Logue's diaries also answered a previously unknown question about the speech that was added to the film. George VI stammered on some of the W's in the speech, and according to a comment he made to Logue, it was so the people would recognize him, writes CNN .

The film turns the event into a climactic event, as a culmination of the years of work the king and Logue have put into his affliction – and which the audience has just watched on screen for the past two hours. Also, though it is unlikely the information was revealed at this exact time in real life, the character of Winston Churchill tells the king just before this speech that he, too, was a stammerer as a child, writes The Lancet . This element is true, though it is positioned for the sake of cinematic drama.

George and Logue's friendship didn't fracture over credentials

In the film, coronation preparations pause when the archbishop of Canterbury, Cosmo Lang, mentions that Logue doesn't have any formal training. Not having known this beforehand, George VI becomes outraged and only calms after Logue provokes him into speaking without stammering, causing him to realize that he actually can speak accurately. This entire element is invented for the film, presumably for the sake of drama (and humor).

By this point, the two men had known each other for over a decade and were friends. Though their relationship was primarily professional, in scouting out Logue's help, the king must have understood his credentials and it didn't bother him; after all, he worked with Logue, voluntarily, for decades (via Daily History ). Logue's formality likely kept their friendship professional enough that they probably had few personal disagreements.

Logue and the king wrote letters back and forth for years; the earlier letters were signed "Albert" and the later letters "George" by the king, according to CNN , indicating a measure of friendship that was likely meted out to few people. When Logue asked the king in 1948 if he would serve as patron of the College of Speech Therapists, George VI immediately agreed and it became known as the Royal College of Speech Therapy, writes The ASHA Leader .

The film has an obvious pro-George VI bias

Due to being written from a historical perspective, "The King's Speech" supports George VI, Logue, Elizabeth, and even Winston Churchill as characters and historical figures much more than it does George V, Edward VIII, or Wallis Simpson. The film has an agenda and a narrative it set out to tell: the story of how George VI overcame his stammer and led a nation successfully through a war.

According to The Gazette , the film's textual inclusion of Logue's appointment as a Member of the Royal Victorian Order is accurate. The king appreciated his services enough to reward him with a title for them, and this element certainly adds to the theme of friendship the film is so fond of.

In another interesting example of bias, however, the film omits Edward VIII's Nazi sympathies entirely, though Simpson is written to seem like an outsider to the royals. This was likely done for the sake of Edward's surviving family, though it was a slightly odd omission considering the context of the film. Edward isn't cast as a villain, however, he doesn't quite seem to realize what he's forcing his brother to step into. Though he immediately supports George, Edward doesn't seem to comprehend the royal family's – and the film's – endless demand of duty.

| HOME
0
AFRICA
CENTRAL AMERICA
MIDDLE EAST
SOUTH AMERICA
UNITED KINGDOM
A
ABOUT
TRAVEL
FEATURES
LINKS
| FILMS
| PLACES
| PEOPLE

Home > Films > K > The King's Speech

Tuesday April 23rd 2024

The King's Speech | 2011

Locations |
Hertfordshire ;
Berkshire ;
Cambridgeshire ;
Buckinghamshire ;
West Yorkshire ;
Colin Firth,
Geoffrey Rush,
Helena Bonham Carter,
Guy Pearce,
Michael Gambon,
Derek Jacobi,
Timothy Spall,
Jennifer Ehle,
Claire Bloom,
Adrian Scarborough,

The King's Speech location: 33 Portland Place, London W1

Heaps of well-deserved praise (not to mention awards and those Oscar nominations) for the performances and the witty script ensured serious box office success for Tom Hooper ’s third feature, despite the adventurous visual style, with its oddly disjointed close-ups mirroring the Duke of York’s ( Colin Firth ) struggle to communicate.

The film kicks of with the then-Duke’s painful attempt to deliver the closing speech at the 1925 ‘Empire Exhibition’. This was held at the famous old Wembley Stadium – home of the FA Cup Final – which was bulldozed in 2003 to make way for the spanking new venue.

The King's Speech location: Iliffe Street, Elephant and Castle, London SE17

With the real Wembley out of the picture, the scene was filmed at two separate locations – both in West Yorkshire – a football stadium and a Rugby League ground. One venue was Elland Road Football Stadium (the home of Leeds United FC ) in Leeds , where director Hooper had shot much of his previous film, The Damned United . The other was Odsal Stadium , Rooley Avenue, Queensbury (home of the Bradford Bulls ), south of Bradford .

The BBC radio control room, with its acres of dials, from where the speech is broadcast around the world, is the old control centre of the disused Battersea Power Station, Wandsworth, London SW8 , dominating the skyline on the south bank of the Thames opposite Pimlico. The monumental Thirties building, currently an empty shell, has proved a useful backdrop of ruined industrial grandeur in films such as Christopher Nolan ’s The Dark Knight and Terry Gilliam ’s The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus .

In London , the Duke and Duchess ( Helena Bonham Carter ) lived at ‘145 Piccadilly’, near Hyde Park Corner. The actual house was destroyed in a bombing raid during WWII, but the house seen in the film is 33 Portland Place , W1 , a remarkable Robert Adam house, dating from 1775, which has had a colourful history – including once being home to the embassy of the Government of Sierra Leone.

Anxious to find a cure for her husband’s debilitating stammer, the Duchess, under the discreet alias of ‘Mrs Johnson’, visits speech therapist Lionel Logue ( Geoffrey Rush ) at his practice on London ’s exclusive Harley Street . The real street, famed as the home of prestigious private medical practices, has seen a few modern developments since the 1920s but, conveniently, an old-fashioned pea-soup fog solves this visual problem. You can glimpse the street again in the original 1969 film of The Italian Job .

The interior of Logue’s practice, though, the extraordinary consulting room with striking windows and wonderfully distressed wallpaper is, amazingly, part of the same elegant Georgian house at 33 Portland Place that provided the royal couple’s ‘Piccadilly’ home (the eagle-eyed might recognise the same room from the 2006 Amy Winehouse video for Rehab ). If you’re planning that really special bash, the house is currently used as one of London ’s most idiosyncratic party venues.

Logue’s modest home, supposedly in Kensington, is 89-96 Iliffe Street at Campton Street, SE17 , just south of Elephant and Castle. An awful lot of period dressing-down gives the neighbourhood to a suitably grimy pre-war look – but a subsequent coat of paint has perked up the street no end.

Logue auditions none too successfully for a production of Richard III at the Bloomsbury Ballroom in Victoria House, 37-63 Bloomsbury Square, WC1 , on the northeast side of the square. The sleekly art deco venue hosts music nights and is available to hire (though at the time of writing, it appears to be closed).

The King's Speech location: Avenue Garden, Regent's Park, London NW1

After the cathartic session during which the future king unleashes a torrent of language rarely used by royals in public, Bertie and his therapist take a relaxing walk in the park. The formal garden, in which the Lionel eventually oversteps the boundaries of protocol, is the Avenue Garden in the southeast corner of Regent’s Park, NW1 .

It’s back up to the north of England , this time to the other side of the Pennines in Lancashire , where the Duke’s rallying speech at manufacturing centre proves another hurdle. The mill is the Queen Street Mill Textile Museum , Harle Syke , on the outskirts of Burnley . Closed as a mill in 1982, it remains the last surviving, operational steam powered weaving mill in the world.

The party, held by Bertie’s older brother David ( Guy Pearce ) and Wallis Simpson ( Eve Best ) at the Scottish estate of ‘Balmoral’, is the Ballroom of Knebworth House , on the A1 in Hertfordshire , 28 miles north of London . This strikingly Gothicised Tudor manor has previously provided gloomy mansions for, among others, the Ingrid Bergman 1956 Oscar-winner Anastasia , Ken Russell 's kitschy Lair of the White Worm (with a pre-stardom Hugh Grant ), Gene Wilder 's Haunted Honeymoon ; the deliriously daft schlocker Horror Hospital ; and – most famously – the exterior of ‘Wayne Manor’ in Tim Burton ’s 1989 Batman .

More regal interiors are portrayed by Hatfield House , also in Hertfordshire ; Halton House in Buckinghamshire (which also appeared as 'Buckingham Palace' in The Queen , with Helen Mirren as Her Maj) and 6 Fitzroy Square, W1, in central London .

6 Fitzroy Square is the headquarters of national charity the Georgian Group , founded in 1937 to protect and preserve Georgian buildings and monuments in the UK. The Georgian period (broadly 1700-1837) produced some of the country’s most beautiful buildings, a fact not overlooked by film companies. 6 Fitzroy Square itself been used as a location for several film and TV productions, including Mike Leigh 's Vera Drake , and Mira Nair ’s Vanity Fair .

Though Knebworth provided the unmistakable silhouette of ‘Wayne Manor’ in Tim Burton ’s 1989 Batman , the interiors are Hatfield House , Hatfield , also in Hertfordshire . The house has been the castle of Lord Greystoke in Greystoke, the Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes , the palace at ‘Greenwich’ in Oscar-winner Shakespeare In Love ; the ‘great house’ in Virginia Woolf 's gender-shifting fantasia, Orlando ; the mansion of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider ; and ( Tim Burton again) home to the posh Salt family in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory among many others.

Halton House , Halton , Buckinghamshire , the one-time residence of Alfred de Rothschild , now used as the Officers' Mess for RAF Halton has featured on-screen a a casino in 1999 Bond movie The World Is Not Enough ; Alan Parker ’s Evita , with Madonna ; in Bride and Prejudice and Stephen Frears ' The Queen , as well as in numerous TV productions. It's not generally open to the public, but there are occasionally visiting days.

Goldeneye location: Livery Hall, Drapers' Hall, Throgmorton Street, London EC2

The intimidatingly grand ‘Accession Council’ at ‘St James’s Palace’, where the new king is intimidated by the portraits of former monarchs, is the Livery Hall of the Drapers’ Hall, Throgmorton Street, EC2 in the City of London (which supplied ‘Russian’ interiors for both 1995 Bond movie GoldenEye and the1997 Val Kilmer version of The Saint . It can accommodate dinner for 270 guests, if Portland Place is just too small for you. And, yes, those royal portraits are real.

Elizabeth, the Golden Age location: Ely Cathedral, Cambridgeshire

Finding a stand-in for Westminster Abbey, the real site of the coronation – in fact, all English coronations since Edward the Conqueror in 1066 – is always a challenge. Although The Da Vinci Code famously used Lincoln Cathedral, as did another royal biopic, The Young Victoria , this time around, the coronation rehearsal was filmed in Ely Cathedral , Ely in Cambridgeshire .

The City of Ely (about an hour from London by rail) was an island until the draining of the East Anglian Fens in the 17th Century, and the cathedral was nicknamed the ‘Ship of the Fens’. It was recently seen as the Queen’s ‘Whitehall’ palace in Shekhar Kapur ’s Elizabeth: the Golden Age and as Henry VIII’s palace in The Other Boleyn Girl .

The streets of wartime London , through whi

Sherlock Holmes location: Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10

ch Logue is driven to royal residence Buckingham Palace, are the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College , King William Walk, Greenwich, London SE10 , London SE10 ( rail: Greenwich ). The grounds of the college have been used similarly in Guy Ritchie ’s Sherlock Holmes , Thor: The Dark World , Disney's Cruella , WWII drama Charlotte Gray , splurgy horror sequel The Mummy Returns , action comedy Shanghai Knights and – as 'Paris' in Tom Hooper 's Les Misérable s. The interiors have been seen in – among many other films – The Madness of King George , Four Weddings and a Funeral and Lara Croft: Tomb Raider .

Sherlock Holmes location: Lancaster House, Stable Yard, St James's, London SW1

The palace itself is a mix of two locations: Englefield House , in Berkshire ; and Lancaster House in London .

Originally a Tudor mansion, Englefield House , Englefield Village just west of Reading, Berkshire , is a private home and not open to visitors, though you can visit the gardens. It's also appeared in Matthew Vaughn ’s X-Men: First Class , Woody Allen ’s Match Point, and the 2008 Noël Coward adaptation Easy Virtue (with Colin Firth , again, and Jessica Biel ).

The long walk to the final broadcast is through the lavish rooms of Lancaster House , Stable Yard, St James's, London SW1 – supposedly more opulent that Buckingham Palace itself (as Queen Victoria remarked when she popped in for a visit “I have come from my house to your palace“). It’s tucked away behind high walls at the end of Pall Mall , past royal residences St James’s Palace and Clarence House, and is now owned by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Although conferences are held here, the breathtaking Louis XIV interior is rarely open to the general public. You’ll probably have to content yourself with seeing it on screen, and you have plenty of opportunities.

Lancaster House became the Tsar’s ‘St Petersburg Winter Palace’ in Warren Beatty ’s Oscar-winning historical epic Reds . The same interior appears as itself for the Lancaster House costume ball in the Merchant - Ivory film of Henry James’ The Golden Bowl , and also becomes the grand home of Lady Bracknell ( Judi Dench ) in Oliver Parker ’s 2002 adaptation of Oscar Wilde ’s The Importance Of Being Earnest .

Its favoured role, though, is as ‘Buckingham Palace’, which is how it appears in another royal biopic, 2009’s The Young Victoria , as well as King Ralph and National Treasure: Book of Secrets .

Visit The Film Locations

Uk | london.

Flights: Heathrow Airport ; Gatwick Airport

Visit: London

Travelling : Transport For London

Venue hire: 33 Portland Place , W1 ,

UK | Hertfordshire

Visit: Hertfordshire

Visit: Knebworth House , Knebworth, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX ( tel: 01438.812661 )

Visit: Hatfield House , Hatfield AL9 5NQ ( tel: 01707.287010 )

UK | Berkshire

Visit: Berkshire

Visit: Berkshire, Southeast England

Visit: the Englefield Estate , Englefield Village, Reading RG7 5EN ( tel: 0118.930.2221 )

UK | Cambridgeshire

Visit: Cambridgeshire

Visit: Ely Cathedral , Ely

UK | Buckinghamshire

Visit: Buckinghamshire

UK | West Yorkshire

Visit: Yorkshire

Visit: Leeds

Visit: Elland Road Football Stadium , Elland Road, Leeds LS11 0ES ( tel: 0871.334.1919 )

UK | Lancashire

Visit: Lancashire

Visit: the Queen Street Mill Textile Museum , Queen Street, Harle Syke, Burnley, Lancashire, BB10 2HX ( tel: 01282.412.555 )

Recent changes
Random page
View source
What links here
Related changes
Special pages
Printable version
Permanent link
Page information
Create account

How historically accurate is the movie The King's Speech

In 2010, The King’s Speech won the Oscar for Best Picture and grossed over $414 million worldwide. It was an unlikely box office champion because it was based on a true story about King George VI of Britain (1895-1952) and an Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue (1880-1953). It shows how Logue helped the king overcome a crippling stammer and how this helped him lead his country during World War II. The movie was directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Seidler.

Critics have widely praised the editing, cinematography, directing, and acting. The movie was able to express the main characters' inner life by the clever use of lighting and other cinematic techniques. Colin Firth won an Oscar for his portrayal of George IV/ The King’s Speech was produced by a British company, and it was shot mainly in London. Among the supporting cast was Helen Bonham-Carter, who played Queen Elizabeth, the wife of the king. The movie was nominated for 12 academy awards, and it won four awards, including one for Best Picture.

Before the movie began filming, the writer, Seidler, found Logue's journal and incorporated elements from the journal into the movie. However, despite this, the historical accuracy of the movie has been questioned and even widely criticized.

When does the King's Speech take place?

The King's Speech takes place mainly in the 1930s at a critical juncture for Britain and its Empire. The nation and its various dependencies had still not recovered from the ravages of World War or the Great Depression. Internationally, Hitler was in power in Germany, and many feared, correctly, that there would be another World War. [1] The rather bleak mood of the time is captured very well by the director. At this critical point in its history, the British Royal Family faced its crisis.

After George V's death, he was succeeded by his eldest son, who became Edward VII in 1936. Edward VII's reign was both brief and controversial. Edward wanted to marry a divorced American, Wallis Simpson. Marrying a divorced was unacceptable to many in Britain at this time as the King was also head of the Church of England. Divorce was socially unacceptable, and the Anglican Bishops and others denounced the idea of the monarch marrying a divorced woman.

When Edward VII decided to marry Wallis Simpson, he was forced to abdicate his crown soon after his Coronation. This meant that his younger brother George or Bertie, as he was known, became king. [2] The depiction of these events in the movie has been fictionalized but is reasonably accurate.

However, there were some inaccuracies in the movie that troubled viewers. One of the scenes that caused the most controversy was when Sir Winston Churchill, the future leader of war-time Britain, supported the accession of George V. This scene misrepresented Churchill's view of Edward's abdication entirely. Churchill supported Edward VII (1894-1972) and believed that he should remain as king despite his marriage to Wallis Simpson. He was friendly with the abdicated king and remained a supporter. [3]

Unlike in the movie, Churchill did have grave doubts about the ability of George VI to carry out his Royal duties. He was not alone in the belief, and many others shared that view in the highest circles of the British government. Over time, he did come to accept the younger brother of Edward VII and came to respect him as an able monarch and leader . [4]

The King and his Stutter

The movie's central theme is the difficulties faced by George VI because of his stutter and how Logue was able to help him overcome his speech defect. This depiction is historically accurate, and the future George VI had a serious speech impediment. In the movie, Firth's character is shown as having a terrible stammer and that when he became nervous or anxious, he was almost unable to communicate. His stammer made public speaking almost impossible for the monarch.

The movie shows that his speech impediment was a result of his insecurity and shyness. [5] This was very much the case, and George VI did have a terrible stutter from childhood. The King’s Speech accurately shows the real problems caused by the future George VI and the entire Royal Family. In one scene at the opening of an exhibition celebrating the British Empire, George struggles with a speech and becomes visibly upset. The movie shows many senior officials and members of the Royal Family becoming gravely concerned about this. In the 1930a, when the movie is set, for the first-time, Royalty members were expected to speak in public and be effective communicators because of the growing importance of the mass media. [6]

The inability of George VI to publicly speak clearly was a real problem, and it was feared that it could damage the Royal Family and even undermine confidence in the government of the British Empire. The movie does somewhat exaggerate the importance of the king’s stutter, but it was a significant issue for the Royal Family.

When did Lionel Logue begin treating George VI?

Perhaps the biggest inaccuracy in the movie is that Logue was, in reality, able to help the King to overcome his stammer before the abdication crisis and his coronation rather than after these events. He first began to treat the second son of George V in the 1920s and continued to do so for many years. The movie shows that the treatment took place in the 1930s, and this was no doubt done for dramatic effect, but this is not strictly correct.

Cooper’s movie relates how George had been seeking help all his life for his stammer, and he tried every technique and treatment available for the time, which is true. The 2010 motion picture does really capture the sense of desperation and anxiety that the future George VI had over his speech impediment. He is shown as going in desperation to the Australian Logue, and this is also correct. The therapist is shown as using innovative techniques to help George overcome his stammer, which is right. The Australian was an early pioneer in speech and language therapy, and he was an innovator. [7] The film shows Rush trying to instill more confidence in the Royal. He adopts several strategies, but none are shown to work.

How did Logue treat George VI's speech impediment?

Eventually, he provokes the king, and in his anger, he can speak stutter-free. In reality, the speech and language therapist gave the monarch a series of daily vocal exercises, such as tongue twisters, that were designed to help him to relax. This helped the future king to relax, and this was key to the improvements in his speech. The motion picture does show that the treatment was not a total success, and the king continued to have a very slight stammer. This was indeed the case. However, the improvement in the speech of George VI was remarkable, which is accurately shown in the 2010 movie. It shows George having grave doubts about Logue and his treatment when he hears that he is not formally qualified as a therapist.

In real life, this did not cause a crisis in the relationship between the British sovereign and the Australian therapist. It is correct that Logue was not formally qualified because there was no education system for language therapy when he was young. Instead, he was self-taught and had traveled the world, studying the ideas of respected speech therapists. The movie leaves the viewers in no doubt that the king and the Royal Family owed the Australian a great debt, and this was the case, and when George VI died, his widow, the Queen, wrote to the therapist to thank him for all he had done for her husband. [8]

What was the relationship between King George VI and Lionel Logue?

The movie shows that the two men began to become real friends over time, despite their differences. This was the case, and it appears that both men liked each other and even enjoyed each other’s company. The relationship between the British king and the Australian is very realistically shown, and they remained friends until the early death of George VI. The movie shows that Logue was present when George made important Radio broadcasts to the British Public. This was the case, but Logue continued to coach the king to speak in public for many years.

In the movie, Logue is shown when George VI pronounced that Britain was at war with Germany in September 1939 during a radio address to the nation. This is not correct, but the Australian did provide the king with notes on things where he should pause and breathe, and these were a real help in the most important speech the monarch ever made. Logue continued to coach the king for many years until about 1944.

The therapist is shown as being very much at ease in the King's presence and treating him like any other client. This was not the case. Despite their genuine friendship, Logue would have been expected to have been somewhat formal and respect the Royal Person of the King at all times. In real life, Logue was not as easy-going and familiar with George VI as portrayed in the historical drama. [9]

Was George VI accurately portrayed in the King's Speech?

Colin Firth’s performance was widely praised. The British actor won the Academy Award for Best Actor. While Firth's performance was widely acclaimed, there were some concerns about how accurately he portrayed the monarch. In the main, Firth did manage to capture George VI and his character in the feature film. The British actor did correctly show that the monarch was a timid and insecure man who felt that he was not equal to his Royal duties, and this was something that greatly distressed him. [10]

His stammer may have been a result of his sense of inadequacy, but this cannot be known, for certain. Firth does show that the monarch did grow in stature after he was crowned as King. It leaves the viewer in no doubt that by the end of the movie, Firth, who has largely overcome his stammer, could lead his country in its hour of greatest danger. [11]

This was the case, and the monarch became widely respected for his leadership and his calm dignity. However, the script tended to be overly sympathetic to George and avoided his character's rather unpleasant aspects. He was alleged to have both fits of anger and alleged acts of domestic violence. Those allegations have not been confirmed.

Helena Bonham Carter's performance was praised, and she does capture the personality of Queen Elizabeth (1900-2002). She was a very supportive wife and dedicated to her husband. She did not want him to become king because she feared what it would do to him. Her family, as shown in the feature film. [12] Geoffrey Rush played the character of the speech and language therapist Logue, and he presented him as a larger-than-life figure who was charismatic, and this was indeed the case. It is generally agreed that Rush really captured the personality of the acclaimed speech and language therapist.

How realistic is the King's Speech?

Overall, the movie is historically accurate. It shows the modern viewer the importance of the King's treatment for his speech impediment. This movie also captures the real sense of anxiety in Britain in the 1930s, and it broadly captures the historical context of the Coronation of George VI. The relationship between Logue and the monarch is also largely accurate. However, this is a movie, and the need to entertain means some inaccuracies, especially concerning details such as the king's treatment. However, when compared to other historical dramas, the movie is very realistic.

Exploring Theme in “The King’s Speech”

Scott Myers

Go Into The Story

In the Core VII: Theme online class I’m currently teaching, we’ve had some great discussions and analysis. One of the most vibrant involved The King’s Speech :

Let’s explore theme in The King’s Speech by comparing two scenes. “I’m Not a King” [click on the link]

“I Have a Voice” [click on the link]

These two scenes serve as crucial bookmarks in Bertie’s psychological journey and play directly to the central theme of the story.

We talked at length about the theme of Bertie, the reluctant king whose circumstance is made worse by the fact he has a stutter, finding his voice.

By finding his voice, Bertie does so quite literally — in making the Big Speech at the end — but also symbolically and psychologically. It brings to mind the Carl Jung quote about the process of individuation which, generally speaking, is an active approach to engaging our Self (the totality of our psychological being) in an effort to move toward what he call ‘wholeness’ (in my writing, I call it Unity). His catch phrase: “Become who you are.” From a writing standpoint, this speaks to that part of a character’s psychological nature we can call by any number of names: True Nature, Authentic Self, Core Essence. It’s already there. The character just hasn’t claimed it yet and used it to redefine their Self. In The King’s Speech , this is what Lionel understands about his work. He didn’t need a Ph.D., rather he learned it through his experiences in WWI and working with actual human beings, boots on the ground so to speak. The words are there, the ability to speak is there, the essence of the individual is there. They just have to break through whatever sort of psychological and habitual blockage keeping them tongue-tied. Remember this scene from The Silence of the Lambs ? Compare that to this scene in The King’s Speech . Same exact function for both Protagonists: A ‘confession’ of sorts about some deeply traumatic events in their past, both of which are tied to the blockage both characters have.

Clarice is a capable law enforcement agent. Bertie is a capable King. Both need to move from their Disunity toward Unity… become who they are. And this is the essence of what we know in movie storytelling as transformation… metamorphosis. Most often a Positive change. So those two scenes cited above in The King’s Speech demonstrate how Lionel came to understand Bertie. That third scene — Bertie’s ‘confession’ — is a bridge for Lionel in understanding Bertie psychologically, then knowing how to push Bertie’s buttons. Sitting in the throne is his way of demystifying MONARCHY for Bertie, bring down that Monstrous Concept to a human level: It’s just a chair. You can sit in it. Which is to say one way to look at screenwriting is to think of everything that happens in the plot somehow services the psychological journey of the characters… and ultimately their transformation.

Working with themes is one of the most powerful writing tools we have. In discovering a story’s Central Theme, we give the narrative a clear focus, a touchstone we have at hand when crafting every single scene. In surfacing Sub-Themes, we can expand a story’s breadth of meaning, particularly in how different characters impact the narrative and the Protagonist’s journey in their own distinctive ways.

For more of my analysis of The King’s Speech , check out these blog posts:

Screenwriting Lessons: “The King’s Speech” — Sympathetic Protagonist

Screenwriting Lessons: “The King’s Speech” —Metamorphosis

Screenwriting Lessons: “The King’s Speech” — Talismans

Screenwriting Lessons: “The King’s Speech” — Shadow

What are your thoughts on The King’s Speech ? The subject of ‘theme’ in writing? I invite you to share your comments. And if you like this post, please recommend to the Medium community. Thanks!

Written by Scott Myers

More from scott myers and go into the story.

Daily Dialogue —March 1, 2017

Harry: wait a minute ron: you understand why, harry once i make my move, the queen will take me. then you’re free to check the king….

100 Scene-Writing Prompts

At a fundamental level, screenwriting is scene-writing. use these prompts to improve your scene-writing chops., movie analysis: “her”.

Script Download Links

100+ scripts made available by studios and production companies., recommended from medium.

Script To Screen: “Cast Away”

From cast away, written by william broyles, jr...

Filmarket Hub

TV Pilot 2023 Screenwriting Contest — WINNER & RUNNERS UP

The filmarket hub platform is delighted to announce the winner and runners-up of its 2023 screenwriting contest for english language tv….

My Favorite Writing Advice & Inspo

Our favorite writing prompts and inspiration

Stories To Help You Overcome Writer's Block

Best of The Writing Cooperative

Tarantino, Sorkin, and Dialogue as Purpose

Analysis of long dialogue-centric scenes in the social network and pulp fiction reveals that underneath the entertaining conversations lies….

Unlocking Screenwriting Success: 101 Insider Habits of Top Screenwriters

Welcome to our comprehensive guide, “the 101 habits of highly successful screenwriters: insider secrets from top writers”., a story idea each day for a month — day 18, this is the 15th year in a row i’ve run this series in april. why a story idea each day for the month because the best way to come up with….

30 Days of Screenplays, Day 8: “Dead Poets Society”

Why 30 screenplays in 30 days.

Text to speech

Home > The King’s Speech Ending Explained

The King’s Speech Ending Explained

UPDATED: February 1, 2024

“The King’s Speech,” a historical drama released in 2010, directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Seidler, captivates audiences with its portrayal of King George VI’s journey to overcome his stammer with the help of Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue. The film, which stars Colin Firth as King George VI and Geoffrey Rush as Lionel Logue, concludes on a note of triumph and personal achievement, reflecting the king’s significant progress and the deep friendship formed between the king and his therapist.

Overcoming the Stammer

At its core, the film’s climax is centered around King George VI’s (Bertie) pivotal wartime speech to the British Empire, declaring war on Nazi Germany in 1939. This moment is not just about the delivery of a speech but symbolizes Bertie’s overcoming of his stammer, the culmination of his journey towards self-confidence, and the affirmation of his capability as a monarch. The successful broadcast is a testament to the tireless work and unconventional methods of Lionel Logue, whose close relationship with the king is crucial to this achievement. The scene captures the essence of Bertie’s transformation and his ability to fulfill his royal duties despite personal challenges.

Historical Accuracy and Dramatization

While “The King’s Speech” is grounded in historical events, certain creative liberties have been taken for dramatic effect. The film suggests that Logue’s treatment and the overcoming of Bertie’s stammer closely precede the abdication crisis and his coronation. However, in reality, Logue began treating Bertie in the 1920s, indicating a longer timeline of improvement before these events. Despite these dramatizations, the depiction of the king’s struggle with his speech impediment and the significance of his public speaking duties in an era increasingly influenced by mass media remains historically accurate.

The Portrayal of Characters

The performances of Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush are central to the film’s success, bringing depth and authenticity to their real-life counterparts. Firth’s portrayal of King George VI captures the monarch’s initial insecurity and subsequent growth into a leader capable of uniting his country. Rush’s depiction of Lionel Logue as a charismatic and innovative therapist highlights the importance of their relationship. The film, while focusing on these two figures, also touches upon the broader context of the British monarchy and its challenges during a tumultuous period.

“The King’s Speech” ends on a high note, not just for the successful delivery of the speech but for what it represents: the overcoming of personal obstacles, the importance of support and friendship, and the affirmation of a king’s role as a leader during wartime. This ending is a powerful reminder of the human aspect behind historical figures and the personal challenges they face. The film’s blend of historical accuracy with dramatization serves to enhance the narrative, making it a compelling story of triumph over adversity.

By examining the blend of personal triumph, historical context, and the deep bond between King George VI and Lionel Logue, “The King’s Speech” offers a nuanced exploration of leadership, friendship, and the power of voice, both literally and metaphorically.

The Boy and the Heron Ending Explained

Dark Harbor Movie (2019) Ending Explained

The Night Crew (2015) Movie Ending Explained

What Ever Happened to Baby Jane Ending Explained

Asteroid City Ending Explained

The Best Years of Our Lives Ending Explained

Latest articles, o.j. simpson saga – a tale of triumph, tragedy, and controversy, jeremy allan white filmography, jeremy allen white – all you need to know, da’vine joy randolph – all you need to know.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Ad Blocker Enabled!

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

For Parents
For Educators
Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

Get the app
Movie Reviews
Best Movie Lists
Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

Best TV Lists
Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
Common Sense Selections for TV
Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

Book Reviews
Best Book Lists
Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

Game Reviews
Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

Podcast Reviews
Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

App Reviews
Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

YouTube Channel Reviews
YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

Explaining the News to Our Kids

Family Tech Planners
Digital Skills
All Articles
Latino Culture
Black Voices
Asian Stories
Native Narratives
LGBTQ+ Pride
Best of Diverse Representation List

Celebrating Black History Month

Movies and TV Shows with Arab Leads

Celebrate Hip-Hop's 50th Anniversary

The king's speech, common sense media reviewers.

Superb drama about overcoming fears is fine for teens.

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

The film has a stirring message: Our biggest limit

The three main characters serve as strong role mod

A character struggles with his temper, which is fu

A king abdicates from the throne because of his in

Strong language includes "bastard," &quo

Some social drinking (sherry, whisky, wine).

Positive Messages

The film has a stirring message: Our biggest limitations are the voices in our head that remind us of all of our imperfections and failures. But they're only voices, and our will and perseverance are stronger than our fears. Communication, integrity, and humility are major themes. The film has some classist overtones, but they’re placed within historical context.

Positive Role Models

The three main characters serve as strong role models: Lionel Logue, though somewhat untraditional in his approach to speech therapy (at least for the movie's time period), believes in himself so much that he's able to help others do so, too. The queen is a lesson in being supportive without condescension, and King George VI is a man not to be denied his life because of his past.

Violence & Scariness

A character struggles with his temper, which is fueled by frustration.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Sex, Romance & Nudity

A king abdicates from the throne because of his involvement with a divorcee. There are references to her "talents" behind closed doors.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Strong language includes "bastard," "bloody," "tits," "damn," "ass," "hell," and "bugger." And in one memorable scene, a man yells out a stream of words like "s--t" and "f--k."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The King's Speech is an engrossing, fact-based drama that's rated R primarily for a few scenes of strong language (including one "f"-word-filled outburst). It has inspiring and empowering messages about triumphing over your fears. An indie about a king who stutters might not seem like typical adolescent fare, but don't judge a movie by the brief synopsis: Teens will enjoy it as much as the grown-ups will if they give it a chance. In addition to the swearing, there's some social drinking, but that all fades in comparison to the movie's surprisingly moving themes of hope and perseverance. Note: An edited version of the movie that removes/lessens some of the strongest language has been rated PG-13 and released separately. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails .

Where to Watch

Videos and photos.

Community Reviews

Parents say (65)
Kids say (126)

Based on 65 parent reviews

Great Oscar winning about overcoming fears.

I loved this movie, what's the story.

In THE KING'S SPEECH, King George VI ( Colin Firth ), father to Queen Elizabeth II, inherited the British throne in 1936 after his brother Edward's controversial abdication to marry divorcee Wallis Simpson. Ultimately, he would lead the United Kingdom through World War II. But even before he ascended the throne, he was a man struggling with a persistent and troubling condition: He stammered. This was a source of deep despair for the soon-to-be king, who was known among friends and family members as Bertie. Despite his wife's ( Helena Bonham Carter ) best efforts and deep, abiding love, Bertie was stunted by rage and anxiety. But in this film based on true events, the king finally finds an ally in Lionel Logue ( Geoffrey Rush ), an Australian speech therapist who helps Bertie gain the confidence and will to overcome his fears and let his voice be heard, literally and metaphorically.

Is It Any Good?

It is a singularly gratifying experience to watch this film's three stars -- Firth, Bonham Carter, and Rush -- do what they do best: act. It's like watching a master class. They disappear into their characters and make them both interesting and understandable. That's not always the case with films about royalty. Often, they're a visual (and unremarkable) summary of what we know from books; here, they fascinate with their trials, triumphs, and, most of all, humanity. And for a movie steeped in a feel-good message -- "You don't need to be afraid of the things you were afraid of when you were 5," intones one man -- it's far from clichéd.

Credit, too, goes to director Tom Hooper and screenwriter David Seidler, who himself conquered a stutter and was inspired by the king. They have created characters so rich that they compel viewers to rush to the Web for some post-viewing research. We know a lot about today's royals, but they don't hold a candle to their predecessors -- or at least to the ones portrayed here. The movie makes history and self-help irresistible. Bottom line? The King's Speech is superb.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about the messages in The King's Speech. What are viewers meant to take away from watching?

How does the movie portray stuttering and those who suffer from it? Does it seem realistic and believable? How does Bertie's struggle with stuttering affect him?

How did the queen pave the way for the king's success? Are they positive role models? Do you think the movie portrays them accurately? Why might filmmakers change some details in a fact-based story?

How do the characters in The King's Speech demonstrate communication and perseverance ? What about integrity and humility ? Why are these important character strengths?

Movie Details

In theaters : November 26, 2010
On DVD or streaming : April 19, 2011
Cast : Colin Firth , Geoffrey Rush , Helena Bonham Carter
Director : Tom Hooper
Inclusion Information : Female actors
Studio : Weinstein Co.
Genre : Drama
Character Strengths : Communication , Humility , Integrity , Perseverance
Run time : 111 minutes
MPAA rating : R
MPAA explanation : some language
Award : Academy Award
Last updated : March 10, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

Our editors recommend.

Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Drama Movies That Tug at the Heartstrings

Biopic movies, related topics.

Communication
Perseverance

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

Become a Critical Movie Critic
Movie Review Archives

Movie Review: The King’s Speech (2010)

Mariusz Zubrowski
Movie Reviews
2 responses
--> December 27, 2010

One of the requirements to holding any kind of public office is a sharp tongue. That being said, a king with a speech impediment is simply coated with irony; it sounds like a great political satire. However, director Tom Hopper ( The Damned United ), alongside screenwriter David Seidler ( Malice in Wonderland (the 1985 T.V. movie, not the Snoop Dogg album, just to be clear) and Tucker: The Man and His Dream ) have taken a more historical (and thus realistic) route, tapping into the criminally underappreciated story of King George VI. The King’s Speech chronicles the hijinks and hoopla surrounding the king of Britain, Albert Frederick Arthur ‘Bertie’ George (or as he’d refer to himself, Ge-Ge-Ge-orge), a real-life “stutterbug” who inherited the throne from his brother, Edward VIII, when he relinquished the crown in order to marry an American socialite. In the film, Colin Firth plays the famous ruler with Geoffrey Rush rounding out the cast as Lionel Louge, George’s personal speech therapist who becomes the center of a much unexpected friendship. Although The King’s Speech does tackle the controversies surrounding the royal family, as well as the uprising of Hitler’s campaign, it remains more of a personal story — a tale of companionship and acceptance that though rather predictable, is also very well-done.

From the film’s very first scene, the humiliation is present in Firth’s character — made explicitly clear by the actor’s mannerisms. For George, a crowd of supporters and a microphone are far scarier than any political figurehead. Sometimes his condition, a life-changing impediment that almost completely shrouds his intellect, is presented humorously — poking fun at Hitler’s talent in public speaking — whereas in others, it is handled carefully — never bordering on being derogatory. But regardless of what context Seidler sculpts the character in, Firth gives a heavy-handed role that is sure to land him an Oscar nomination at the upcoming Academy Awards (making this year’s ceremony a real clash of the titans, with Firth, Jeff Bridges, and Ryan Gosling expected to garner nods).

However, a majority of the film’s likability is because of Firth’s chemistry with Rush, George’s unorthodox counterpart. Although they do not consider themselves equals in the first few moments of their relationship, the bond between them gradually blossoms. It eventually becomes a beautiful partnership — one that can overcome any obstacle, and it is this that stops George from becoming a one-note, heartless king, allowing him to become shockingly human. Adding to the effect is the versatile Helena Bonham Carter as Queen Elizabeth, whose role in George’s characterization is key — without Elizabeth, who George treats with the utmost of respect, his relationship with Lionel, which begins tumultuously, would have been tainted. Audience members, who watch as George throws tantrums and verbally abuse Louge, would have associated George as nothing more than a dignified brute, but because of Carter’s character, who is employed with immaculate precision, George’s motives are clear — he’s just insecure.

It’s just a shame that Seidler is forced to separate the characters in order to move the plot along. When apart, The King’s Speech is at its weakest — being left wide open to uneeded superfluities which caused me to lose focus and interest (you may think otherwise, if you’re into the entire political scheme of things).

Fortunately, the majority of the film isn’t about politics, instead succeeding because of its very touching human component. And thanks to the chemistry between the film’s leading actors, The King’s Speech goes past being just a good film to being a gr-gr-gr-gr-eat film.

Eventually I'll put something nifty here. Until then, know that I'm watching you. Closely.

Movie Review: Justice League (2017) Movie Review: My Scientology Movie (2015) Movie Review: The Magnificent Seven (2016) Movie Review: Creed (2015) Movie Review: The Green Inferno (2013) Movie Review: Sicario (2015) Movie Review: Terminator Genisys (2015)

'Movie Review: The King’s Speech (2010)' have 2 comments

January 25, 2011 @ 10:34 am Fowler

12 Oscar nominations! It is a good movie, but that good?

January 25, 2011 @ 6:45 pm Mariusz Zubrowski

The Academy loves these buddy-buddy tales of triumphant. But some of the nominations are pushing it.

| Log in

The King's Speech

56 pages • 1 hour read

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Chapters 4-6

Chapters 7-9

Chapters 10-12

Chapters 13-16

Key Figures

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

Summary and Study Guide

The King’s Speech is a 2010 non-fiction book about King George VI and how he was treated for a speech impediment by the Australian Lionel Logue . Their unlikely friendship is credited for saving the British monarchy during a difficult time in world history. The King’s Speech was co-authored by Mark Logue (grandson of Lionel Logue) and Peter Conradi (an accomplished author of historical nonfiction) as an accompaniment to the Oscar-winning 2010 film of the same name.

Plot Summary

Get access to this full Study Guide and much more!

7,500+ In-Depth Study Guides
4,900+ Quick-Read Plot Summaries
Downloadable PDFs

The book begins in May 1937. King George VI wakes up on the morning of his coronation, already nervous. The British monarchy is facing “one of the greatest crises” (16) in its history following the abdication of Edward VIII. Also in London, an Australian speech therapist named Lionel Logue wakes up and begins to travel to the coronation with his wife Myrtle. The King is expected to deliver a speech, and the stammer he has suffered from since childhood has made this a difficult prospect. The streets are packed as the crowds gather to watch the ceremony. The coronation goes well. That evening, Logue travels to Buckingham Palace to help the King prepare for a radio broadcast. The next day, the King’s speech is hailed as a success.

Logue was born in Adelaide in 1880. He develops an interest in elocution and begins to perform speeches onstage for rapt audiences. He meets and marries a woman named Myrtle, and the two have a son together. They travel the world in 1908, leaving their son Laurie at home. They plan to move to Britain but do not do so until 1924. Logue becomes famous in Australia for his skills as a speech therapist.

The SuperSummary difference

8x more resources than SparkNotes and CliffsNotes combined
Study Guides you won ' t find anywhere else
100+ new titles every month

By the time the Logue family moves to Great Britain, they have three sons. The country is still recovering from World War I and an economic recession. Logue sets up a speech therapy practice. He develops a number of key techniques to treat speech impediments.

The future King George VI is born in December 1895. His grandmother is Queen Victoria. With his brother, he is raised mostly by nurses and governesses, leading to a distant relationship with his parents. Whereas his brother is charming and fun, he has developed a terrible stammer. Bertie (as he is known) attends naval college and does not excel. His father is eventually proclaimed King. Bertie struggles to give speeches and frequently falls ill. In adulthood, Bertie slowly becomes his father’s favorite while his brother argues with the King and has developed a reputation for socializing. Bertie meets Elizabeth, and they marry, which pleases Bertie’s father, though his stammer remains an issue. Public speaking makes him incredibly nervous. One speech ends in humiliation for Bertie. Logue hears him speak and believes he can help. Bertie has sought medical advice, but it has always failed him. At Elizabeth’s request, Bertie agrees to meet with Logue.

Logue and Bertie meet at Logue’s office. Logue declares that he can cure the stammer but demands that his patient apply a tremendous amount of effort. They meet often, and two well-delivered speeches are seen as evidence of improvement. A royal trip to Australia goes very well, and Bertie is commended for his speech. The lessons continue.

Logue takes Myrtle to the Palace, where they are presented at court. Bertie’s improvement is noted in the press, though Logue declines to answer questions on the matter. The story is eventually published, and Logue is credited for his work, becoming famous. Bertie continues to toil and the beginnings of a real friendship between him and Logue emerge.

The narrative moves into the 1930s. Bertie is becoming more involved in the monarchy while his daughters are becoming world famous. He visits Logue less frequently but remains in touch. The Great Depression affects both men’s families. King George V dies in 1936, precipitating change for both men.

Edward takes the throne as a popular King, but his romantic relationship with twice-divorced American Wallis Simpson is scandalous. When he announces that he wants to marry Wallis, he is told it is not possible. Edward abdicates the throne. Bertie takes the throne as his brother leaves the country. Bertie becomes King George VI. His speech impediment is now an even bigger issue, even if his treatment has been going well.

Logue helps the new King prepare for his coronation. There will be a speech to the crowd and a radio broadcast for the Empire. Rehearsals do not go well, though the Queen is a calming influence. A back-up recording is made from practice speeches in the event that something should go wrong.

Both speeches are a triumph. Logue continues to help the King prepare his speeches. The monarch’s new workload is notably draining. The King delivers a Christmas day speech in the mold of his father, which Logue helps prepare. They spend Christmas day together, and the King gives Logue a present as a means of thanking him. Myrtle returns to Australia, where she is treated like a celebrity. Everyone wants to know about her husband’s work with the King.

As Europe moves closer to the Second World War, the King travels to Europe. He delivers speeches and meets with President Roosevelt. Logue grows closer to the royal family, and when the King returns from America, they chat informally about the trip while preparing for a speech.

The Second World War begins. The Logues’ Bavarian cook returns to Germany. Air raid sirens encourage everyone to move to shelters. The King and Logue prepare a special radio broadcast to reassure people. Rationing is introduced. The Christmas speech becomes a yearly tradition.

The war continues. The King’s hair is beginning to grey as he and Logue prepare a speech for Empire Day. Logue listens to the speech, marveling at the progress the King has made. The King is proud. The Nazis are winning in the war. Logue’s eldest son is conscripted. London is bombed. Logue assists with another Christmas speech. As he listens, he stops following along because he realizes that there is no need.

By 1943, the war has turned in the Allies’ favor. The King visits North Africa. All three Logue boys are now serving in the military. Logue’s business suffers due to the war and the King donates £500 as a means of thanking Logue. They prepare a speech for the eve of D-Day, which is a great success. The war continues, as does the bombing of London. The King delivers the Christmas speech without Logue, and it is a great success.

The Allies win the war. The entire country celebrates. Later, while Logue is undergoing surgery, Myrtle suffers a heart attack. Logue is devastated. Logue continues to work, though he sells the large (and now empty) family house. He is lonely and develops an interest in psychics. The King’s daughter marries, and the King’s health worsens.

The King delivers his final Christmas speech in 1951 and dies in his sleep a short time later. He and Logue corresponded up until his death. Logue recovers from his own illness to write to the Queen, mourning the loss of her husband. Princess Elizabeth is crowned Queen Elizabeth II. Logue dies in 1953 as a result of kidney failure. He does not survive to see Elizabeth’s coronation, though he is invited.

Don't Miss Out!

Access Study Guide Now

Featured Collections

British Literature

View Collection

Inspiring Biographies

Our Mission
Now Playing
Concierge Services
Discount Tickets

A fascinating rendering of ‘The King’s Speech’ at the National Theatre

Playwright David Seidler presents a stage version that resembles and differs from his Oscar-winning screenplay

Given that so many plays and films these days are based on, drawn from or inspired by each other, it is worth examining the differences between these media and the treatments they require. The King’s Speech, making its DC debut at the National Theatre until Sunday, is an excellent case in point.

In a way, this is something of a chicken-and-egg situation. Playwright David Seidler originally wanted to stage the true story of Bertie, later King George VI, overcoming his severe stammer to lead Britain through the dark years of World War II. He was not granted permission, however, until after the death of the Queen Mother in 2002. When he finally returned to the story in 2005, it was reconceived as a movie – which went on to earn 12 Oscar nominations and win four: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor for Colin Firth and Best Screenplay for Seidler himself.

Not willing to rest on his laurels, Seidler, who himself suffered as a child from a stammer brought on by losing family members in the Holocaust, turned his screenplay back into a stage script. The play premiered in the UK in 2011 to strong reviews, but not enough time had passed since the film, and the West End production closed after two months.

Now, at long last, the stage version of The King’s Speech has reached the US, and it both resembles and differs from its cinematic older brother in telling ways. Coming from the same pen, many of the scenes are word-for-word duplicates, but they are presented quite differently. Film is most often a naturalistic and subtle medium, full of close-ups and details that capture the essence and emotions of the characters. Theater, by necessity, must be larger and more abstract. A large playhouse demands a broader perspective — literally.

This is abundantly clear at the National in the striking set by Kevin Depinet that greets the audience when they enter. It presents a strong forced perspective view of a huge room or corridor, with projections on the walls representing different venues — Buckingham Palace, Harley Street offices, Westminster Abbey and even Nazi rallies. The negative space above the converging walls forms a looming, black “V” that hangs over the protagonist Bertie (Nick Westrate) like a sword of Damocles — or like the huge “V” in the name of his father, King George V, whose oppressive presence overpowers his life.

As this broader canvas demands, Michael Wilson’s staging is fluid and capable. The footmen and courtiers whisk in chairs, desks, thrones and even a casket with the silent efficiency one would expect from the royal household. Scenes that in the film are carefully detailed by real settings are quickly indicated by a flash of a stained-glass window or a newsreel on the wall.

The film presented a gentle, sympathetic portrayal of all the characters, including Bertie’s frightening father and even Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, whose obsession with each other precipitated a constitutional crisis. Perhaps it was too gentle; it was criticized for glossing over the politics of the era, including the appeasement of Hitler and Edward VIII’s Nazi sympathies.

The play takes a harsher tone. The characters are drawn with a broader and more vivid brush. While the movie was a comforting story of adversity overcome by courage and friendship in a time of crisis, the play reveals more conflict. The threats to Britain and the throne are made clear by politicians like Churchill (Kevin Gudahl) and Stanley Baldwin (David Lively). Edward (Jeff Parker) and Wallis (Tiffany Scott) appear not only as selfish hedonists but as full-fledged Nazis, poised to swoop in and retake the throne as Hitler’s puppet monarchs if Bertie fails. There is even a moment when the amusingly sour Archbishop of Canterbury (Noble Shropshire) reveals his own lust for power. Bertie bitterly reveals some details about his father’s death that throw cynical political realities into sharp relief.

With all these conflicts, one hardly needs more. It seems unnecessary to introduce a subplot in which the speech therapist’s wife Myrtle (Elizabeth Ledo) taxes him with her disappointment that he broke his promise to take her back to their native Australia — as if his effort to help the King stand up to Hitler and save the Commonwealth is some sort of betrayal of her. This creates a strange rivalry between her and Queen Elizabeth (Maggie Lacey), who is much sharper and more snobbish than in the movie, and at one point compares herself to Lady Macbeth.

The actors embody the main roles with the conviction and commanding presence the stage demands. Michael Bakkensen imbues Lionel Loeb, the speech therapist, with more passion and conflict than Geoffrey Rush’s unflappable film version. And although Nick Westrate, as Bertie/George VI, can’t provide the subtlety and interior detail that won Firth an Oscar, he portrays the reluctant King with frustration and fire that fills the theater.

All in all, this is a fascinating play, for what it reveals about both the demands of duty in a momentous crisis in British history and the different artistic demands of film vs. stage.

It is only in town for a few days. See it while you can.

Running Time: Approximately 2 hours plus one 15-minute intermission.

The King’s Speech plays through Sunday, February 16 at The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004. For tickets, call 202-628-6161 or purchase them online .

In musical fable ‘Islander’ at Olney, humans seek harmony with nature

‘Venus and Adonis’ at Taffety Punk reveals young Shakespeare on love

‘Are We at War Yet?’ at University of Maryland captures a global unease

IMAGES

The King's Speech
Union Films
The King's Speech Final Scene
‎The King's Speech (2010) directed by Tom Hooper • Reviews, film + cast
The King's Speech Full HD Wallpaper and Background
The King's Speech Opening Scene

VIDEO

The King's Speech Speech Scene
The King's Speech First Appointment Scene
The King's Speech Full Movie Facts And Review
The King's Speech Full Movie Review
Italian Reacts To The Norwegian King's Speech : Norway is one
The Oscar-Winning Writing Method Behind "The King's Speech"

COMMENTS

The King's Speech
The King's SpeechThis is a 2010 British historical drama film. Actor Colin Firth played the future King George VI who suffers from stammer. And in order to c...
The King's Speech/Best scene/Helena Bonham Carter/Geoffrey ...
Biopic about Britain's King George VI (father of present day Queen Elizabeth II) and his lifelong struggle to overcome his speech impediment. Suffering from ...
The King's Speech (2010)
The main scenes at the climax of this wonderful film were set to instantly recognisable music by Beethoven, but that didn't stop composer Alexandre Desplat f...
The King's Speech
The King's Speech is a 2010 historical drama film directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Seidler. Colin Firth plays the future King George VI who, to cope with a stammer, sees Lionel Logue, an Australian speech and language therapist played by Geoffrey Rush.The men become friends as they work together, and after his brother abdicates the throne, the new king relies on Logue to help him ...
The King's Speech (2010)
The King's Speech: Directed by Tom Hooper. With Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Derek Jacobi, Robert Portal. The story of King George VI, his unexpected ascension to the throne of the British Empire in 1936, and the speech therapist who helped the unsure monarch overcome his stammer.
Magnificent Scene from The King's Speech (2010) HD [01h-26m ...
Great Drama from The King's Speech (2010). Geoffrey Rush and Colin Firth at their best in the greatest drama of 2010. One of the most memorable scene from 20...
The King's Speech movie review (2010)
"The King's Speech" tells the story of a man compelled to speak to the world with a stammer. It must be painful enough for one who stammers to speak to another person. To face a radio microphone and know the British Empire is listening must be terrifying. ... It is the one scene in the film that must work, and it does, and its emotional impact ...
The King's Speech
The King's Speech. A stirring, handsomely mounted tale of unlikely friendship starring Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush. By Peter Debruge. Americans love kings, so long as they needn't answer to ...
The King's Speech
The King's Speech. R | biographical dramas | 1 HR 59 MIN | 2010. WATCH NOW. When his brother abdicates, George VI reluctantly dons the crown. Though his stutter soon raises concerns about his leadership skills, King George VI turns to an unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue, and the two forge a friendship. Watch The King's Speech ...
The King's Speech
Firth's face is a picture of misery in the opening scene, under his top hat, as if attending his own funeral. ... But The King's Speech proves there's fizzing life in old-school British period ...
The True Story Behind "The King's Speech"
By Noemi Arellano-Summer / Dec. 9, 2021 12:12 am EST. "The King's Speech" is a 2010 dramatic biographical film, recounting the friendship between King George VI of England and his Australian speech therapist, Lionel Logue. The film also covers Edward VIII's 1936 abdication, and George VI's subsequent coronation and shouldering of responsibility ...
The King's Speech
The King's Speech location: Lionel Logue's 'Kensington' home: Iliffe Street, Elephant and Castle, London SE17. With the real Wembley out of the picture, the scene was filmed at two separate locations - both in West Yorkshire - a football stadium and a Rugby League ground. One venue was Elland Road Football Stadium (the home of Leeds ...
How historically accurate is the movie The King's Speech
The King's Speech accurately shows the real problems caused by the future George VI and the entire Royal Family. In one scene at the opening of an exhibition celebrating the British Empire, George struggles with a speech and becomes visibly upset. The movie shows many senior officials and members of the Royal Family becoming gravely concerned ...
The King's Speech (11/12) Movie CLIP
The King's Speech movie clips: http://j.mp/1x2C3KRBUY THE MOVIE: http://amzn.to/zoi2r4Don't miss the HOTTEST NEW TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/1u2y6prCLIP DESCRIPT...
Exploring Theme in "The King's Speech"
Let's explore theme in The King's Speech by comparing two scenes. "I'm Not a King" [click on the link] "I Have a Voice" [click on the link] These two scenes serve as crucial bookmarks in Bertie's psychological journey and play directly to the central theme of the story. We talked at length about the theme of Bertie, the ...
The King's Speech Ending Explained
"The King's Speech," a historical drama released in 2010, directed by Tom Hooper and written by David Seidler, captivates audiences with its portrayal of King George VI's journey to overcome his stammer with the help of Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue. ... The scene captures the essence of Bertie's transformation and his ...
The King's Speech Movie Review
Parents need to know that The King's Speech is an engrossing, fact-based drama that's rated R primarily for a few scenes of strong language (including one "f"-word-filled outburst). It has inspiring and empowering messages about triumphing over your fears. An indie about a king who stutters might not seem like typical adolescent fare, but don't judge a movie by the brief synopsis: Teens will ...
Movie Review: The King's Speech (2010)
Fortunately, the majority of the film isn't about politics, instead succeeding because of its very touching human component. And thanks to the chemistry between the film's leading actors, The King's Speech goes past being just a good film to being a gr-gr-gr-gr-eat film. Critical Movie Critic Rating: 4. Movie Review: Yogi Bear (2010)
The King's Speech Summary and Study Guide
The King's Speech is a 2010 non-fiction book about King George VI and how he was treated for a speech impediment by the Australian Lionel Logue.Their unlikely friendship is credited for saving the British monarchy during a difficult time in world history. The King's Speech was co-authored by Mark Logue (grandson of Lionel Logue) and Peter Conradi (an accomplished author of historical ...
The King's Speech
The King's Speech - First Scene In this clip, Colin Firth (playing the Duke of York) is asked by his father - King George the V of England - to give an important closing address. Even for a prince, we see that it is difficult to open up, especially when the King of all Kings has given us the responsibility to do so.
A fascinating rendering of 'The King's Speech' at the National Theatre
The King's Speech, making its DC debut at the National Theatre until Sunday, is an excellent case in point. Tiffany Scott as Wallis and Jeff Parker as David in 'The King's Speech.' Photo by Liz Lauren courtesy of Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. In a way, this is something of a chicken-and-egg situation. Playwright David Seidler originally ...
The King's Speech (soundtrack)
The King's Speech (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) is the soundtrack to the Academy Award-winning film The King's Speech, released by Decca Records on 22 November 2010. Alexandre Desplat composed the film's original music. The score consisted of minimalistic sounds created with piano and strings, and a limited orchestra with oboe and harp ...
The King's Speech (10/12) Movie CLIP
The King's Speech movie clips: http://j.mp/1x2C3KRBUY THE MOVIE: http://amzn.to/zoi2r4Don't miss the HOTTEST NEW TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/1u2y6prCLIP DESCRIPT...

The King's Speech

Best Picture Winners by Year

More like this

Did you know

User reviews 827

Technical specs

Related news

More to explore

Recently viewed

Movie Reviews

Roger Ebert

Now playing

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

The Animal Kingdom

Brian Tallerico

Carol Doda Topless at the Condor

Little Wing

The King's Speech (2010)

Directed by

Latest blog posts

Sonic the Hedgehog Franchise Moves to Streaming with Entertaining Knuckles

San Francisco Silent Film Festival Highlights Unearthed Treasures of Film History

Ebertfest Film Festival Over the Years

The 2024 Chicago Palestine Film Festival Highlights

The King’s Speech

Peter Debruge

Popular on Variety

More From Our Brands

The King's Speech

The King's Speech – review

More on this story

The King's Speech flies the flag for a stiff upper lip that no longer exists

The King's Speech: an emotionally stirring Oscar magnet

The King's Speech rules Toronto film festival

Could Colin Firth's King's Speech become one of Oscar acceptance?

The King's Speech – review

Colin Firth has left his posh acting peers in the dust. Give him the Oscar for The King's Speech now

The King's Speech: How George VI's simple domesticity made him the king his country needed in time of war

The King's Speech: How clever sets create a compelling picture of 1930s London

The True Story Behind "The King's Speech"

Prince Albert had a stutter as a child

Lionel Logue was a self-taught speech therapist

Logue began working with Prince Albert in 1926

Logue worked with Albert for over 15 years

Wallis Simpson was a more complex person than the film indicates

Churchill was actually opposed to Edward VIII's abdication

King George VI's coronation was less fraught than the film depicts

Logue was more deferential to his royal patient

The speech announcing war with Germany was less dramatic

George and Logue's friendship didn't fracture over credentials

The film has an obvious pro-George VI bias

The King's Speech | 2011

Visit The Film Locations

UK | Hertfordshire

UK | Berkshire

UK | Cambridgeshire

UK | Buckinghamshire

UK | West Yorkshire

UK | Lancashire

How historically accurate is the movie The King's Speech

When does the King's Speech take place?

The King and his Stutter

When did Lionel Logue begin treating George VI?

How did Logue treat George VI's speech impediment?

What was the relationship between King George VI and Lionel Logue?

Was George VI accurately portrayed in the King's Speech?

How realistic is the King's Speech?

Further Reading

Exploring Theme in “The King’s Speech”

Written by Scott Myers

Daily Dialogue —March 1, 2017

100 Scene-Writing Prompts

Script Download Links

Script To Screen: “Cast Away”

TV Pilot 2023 Screenwriting Contest — WINNER & RUNNERS UP

My Favorite Writing Advice & Inspo

Our favorite writing prompts and inspiration

Stories To Help You Overcome Writer's Block

Best of The Writing Cooperative

Tarantino, Sorkin, and Dialogue as Purpose