Commentary Review: ‘The King’s Speech’ (2010)

The King's Speech commentary review
Image source: wikimedia.org

Audio Commentaries are sometimes a forgotten gem in the world of film. But how often do they get heard, and are they even worth hearing? This series of reviews will take a look at some of the best, and perhaps worst, audio commentaries on some classic films. Exploring what, if anything, they bring to the film. Any commentary review suggestions? Let us know in the comments below.


Who does this Commentary? The King’s Speech commentary is from director Tom Hooper.

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The King’s Speech is a 2010 biographical drama, telling the story of King George VI and his attempts to overcome a stammer which he developed in childhood. He works with Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue, and the film focuses on their relationship and friendship as they work together. We also see the predicament which George VI is put in when his brother suddenly abdicates the throne, and he becomes King.

With a cast including Colin Firth as George VI, Helena Bonham Carter as Queen Elizabeth and Geoffrey Rush as Logue, there is also a stellar supporting cast, including Michael Gambon, Claire Bloom, Guy Pearce, Jennifer Ehle, Timothy Spall and Derek Jacobi. The King’s Speech was immensely popular on release, and it went on to win four Academy Awards; Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Actor for Colin Firth.

I hadn’t seen The King’s Speech for a long while, so I watched the film without the commentary to begin with. I was reminded just how great the film is, and the scenes between Firth and Rush especially, as we see their relationship develop, add both drama and humour to the story. The supporting cast also assist in these elements, alongside the director’s unique visual style.

Having watched The King’s Speech with the commentary from director Tom Hooper, this has only added to the enjoyment I already had of the film. Hooper gives a lot of information throughout, on a variety of topics, without being too overbearing with what he is saying. He discusses the filming schedule, casting, how the script came to be written, the real people whom the characters are based on, the locations, his use of the camera and notes on the real events behind the story.

Most audio commentaries from directors only offer a few perspectives on elements of the filmmaking, but Hooper really does cover a lot of bases. Whatever aspect of the film you want to learn more about, you will probably hear it in this commentary. The most under-discussed aspect is detailed information about the real King George VI and Lionel Logue. However, I suspect anyone looking to understand more about the real history behind the film will not head towards the commentary first. Regardless of this, the commentary is a real treat to listen to, and I am keen to hear other commentaries that Hooper has done.

Commentary Score: 8/10
This commentary really has a lot to offer, and is one of the best I have heard. If you are already a fan of the film, the information you will learn from the commentary will only add to your enjoyment, and you may find yourself learning about something which you didn’t realise you would find interesting.

Favourite Commentary Moment: Tom Hooper tells a story about Michael Gambon and his early theatre work. When playing a sword-carrier on stage at the age of 25, Gambon would hide a radio in his costume so he could listen to it whilst on stage.

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