In this frame, we can clearly identify the Duke of York's feelings of incompetency as a royal and his ultimate emotional shrinkage as he stammers through an unsuccessful speech, delivered on behalf of his father, King George V. It is at this point in the film that we can identify "the King's speech" as a hand-off to his son for his own purposes of stately exposure, which in turn publicly exposes the Duke's severe speech impediment.
Moreover, this initial interpretation of the film's title alludes to the processes by which the Duke of York (Bertie) ascends to the throne in linear conjunction with his adventures in speech therapy. As a series of seemingly disastrous events eventually unfold in favor of Bertie and his beloved family, the audience is taken behind the curtain of regalia into both the rites of passage that define the forthcoming of King George VI, as well as the forging of an unlikely, life-long friendship between Bertie and Lionel, who began their association as social opposites.
The culminating interpretation of the film title reveals itself when King George VI successfully delivers his first wartime speech, lasting approximately nine minutes, with the dutiful assistance of his speech therapist and now devoted friend. He has hence gained a confidence unknown to him throughout his life, and thereafter serves his country as a steadfast symbol of resilience throughout the perilous years of WWII. It is at this point of the film's conclusion that the film title announces triumph over personal adversities, as Bertie's declaration of war represents the first and perhaps the most significant speech of his reign.
The aforementioned scenes explicate the uncommon bond formed between Bertie and Lionel in a manner of duality: (1)Lionel's services are commissioned for the Duke of York after delivering a failed speech, thereby identifying Bertie in the same light as his speech therapist, who had failed to revive his acting career. (2)After they've spent some time in sessions and learning the sources of his fear-induced stammer, Lionel asserts his desire for Bertie to succeed as a royal, awarding Lionel with his own sense of vicarious accomplishment. (3)Their friendship is tested when Lionel crosses the line by openly confronting Bertie's fears and royal concerns with ascending to the throne, as they both undergo self-examination for their personal shortcomings. Finally, (4) King George's war declaration is a success for them both as professionals and as friends through what has come to be shared story of triumph.
This is a very well thought out analysis of the film. I had not taken into account Lionel's failure as an actor being a parallel to Bertie’s failure with his speech. I like how you focused on Lionels’ successes through Bertie’s. I think I paid more attention to Bertie as the main character, overlooking just how strong of a supporting role Lionel played in his life.
ReplyDeleteIt is true that their friendship is exceedingly close, closer than any other person had gotten to Bertie except maybe his wife. The fact that Lionel could speak so candidly with the Duke of York turned King of England shows just how strong the friendship was. Because they were able to move passed the issue of Lionel telling Bertie how he feels regarding Bertie’s handling of the delicate situation he was in, it is clear to see that Bertie considers their friendship invaluable.