The King's Speech

This is a superb film. I wasn't surprised at how good it was, based on everything I've read and heard about it, and the fact that Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush (the two principals) are among my very favourite actors. But I was surprised at its very moving and emotional effect on me and others. This is not just about how King George VI overcame his stammer with the help of an eccentric and uncredentialed speech therapist from Australia. Whether or not the story is completely true in content, personalities and relationship of these two characters, it's such an inspiring demonstration of courage, friendship, perseverance and rising to the occasion and embracing a life that turns out to be precisely what one was hoping to avoid. Needless to say, performances by Firth and Rush are both outstanding, as well as that by Helena Bonham-Carter as Queen Elizabeth, the King's always supportive and loving wife and partner. Other performances were also good, the screen play by David Seidler excellent, and Tom Hoper's direction impeccable as the beautiful and compelling scenes unfolded. The film has already received some awards in Europe, is nominated for seven Golden Globes and I have no doubt will also have numerous Oscar nominations. All deserved, in my opinion. Not to be missed.

The Wackness

This 2008 film was recommended to me by "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" TV show/film star and friend Cathy Jones - thanks Cathy! - and I finally got around to watching it yesterday. It's rare that I like and am amused by American comedies but this one was truly funny as well as being very sweet. The main character Luke, a teenage marijuana dealer consumed by youthful angst, is wonderfully played by Josh Peck, someone I'm pretty sure I'd never seen in anything before. As well, an almost unrecognizable bearded and long-haired Ben Kingsley as a marijuana-smoking New York psychiatrist as well as Luke's client/therapist is hilarious. For a really enjoyable time, rent this DVD.