REVIEW: HOW DO YOU KNOW

3.5/5

Wouldn't you know, a rom-com with smarts.

12A, 121 Minutes. Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, Owen Wilson & Jack Nicholson. Director: James L. Brooks. Screenplay: James L. Brooks

Don't you know a good romantic comedy when you see it? In the melting pot of formulaic stories these days it's hard to find something of substance. Until, that is you get a director is willing to experiment with new plots and themes. Often times your look at movies today and wonder if this is 'As Good As It Gets' until the director of this classic re-teams with legend Jack Nicholson and others for more movie magic. Director, James L. Brooks the genius behind the pen of 'The Simpsons' lets his mind get the better of his work once again with 'How Do You Know' a comedy with big, stupid laughs but growth and maturity also. It's like 'As Good As It Gets' for the younger generation as Brooks tries to write them a better story.

The story centres around four characters and their crossover lives. Reese Witherspoon plays a great softball player who's dreams are shattered. She meets Paul Rudd, who plays a man down on his luck two, unemployed, running out of money and about to be indicted, taking the wrap for his Dad, played by, don't you know? Jack. Although Witherspoon and Rudd don't hit it off right away, her sensational sass and his classic charm make for some great chemistry and choice moments.

The trouble is Witherspoon is holding on to her sport, dating Owen Wilson, a millionaire who sits on the bench and the fence, when it comes to relationships. Man of the moment, Wilson is hilarious in this. He plays a lovable Lothario, devoid of a conscience but conscious of charisma. Everything he says is a one-liner, with it's absurd appeal. Everything he does is comedy magic in all his bag of tricks. Your not supposed to like bad guys, but with this character you can see why women do.

Jack Nicholson is back to his classic, scary, intimidating best, but he shows heart two, just like when he asked for better the last time him and Brooks got it together. Witherspoon and Rudd lead perfectly however, as their characters lives follow a similar path as they meet in the middle, but the question is, will they carry on down the road together? You can't deny Reese's class or the pieces of genuine grace and elegance. As for Rudd he once again shows that no one can play the leading man in hopeful romantic comedies like him. This everyman, evoking talent is upping his game with every movie. John Cusack has met his match.

Thanks to Brooks equally great way of capturing the American city feel with it's inhabitants privater lives this film looks great. Romantic and warm, the Virginian backdrop really draws you in. While support comes in all sorts of ways. From available assistants to accommodating doormen and patient bus drivers at your service. From good news to bad there are some real tender moments touching this picture two.

'How Do You Know' when you've found a great film for the weekend? You know when you have a mix of comedy and drama with warmth and heart. From the physical humour to the strong dialogue this film is all knowing. Sure there are the lulls and the times it feels all over the place but then Brooks ties it all together, awaking a story we can all enjoy. Sure this movie may not stay with you, but it was sure nice to know it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: THE BLACK SWAN

5/5

Samantha Smith is back with her take on the best choice for this Friday.

15, 108 Minutes. Starring: Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Winona Ryder, Vincent Cassel. Director: Darren Aronofsky. Screenplay: Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz
& John McLaughlin

'Black Swan' is a dark and thrilling drama based around the ballet production of Swan Lake. When shy, innocent Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman) is given the role of Swan queen in her ballet company’s production she wants to be perfect. Although everyone including her artistic director and love interest Thomas (Cassel) claim that her beauty and innocence are perfect for the role of the white swan she just isn’t sensual or wild enough to play the black swan as well. When new comer Lily (Kunis) starts attracting Thomas’s attention Nina starts to get in touch with her darker side in a bid to keep her role and her man, but can the gentle and innocent white swan live harmoniously with the dark spirit of the black? Perhaps not…

Visually the film is beautiful; I particularly enjoyed the opening sequence which involved the camera following the feet of Nina whilst performing. The whole film seems to flow and even dance before your eyes as you watch and you can recognise certain cinematic techniques that Aronofsky used a few years ago in his film ‘The Wrestler’, interesting because both films seem to follow a professional who is struggling in their art. The use of filters and lighting to catch the changing moods of the film are also very effective, when the white swan is dancing or when Nina is her normal self the lights are brighter and the film seems softer however, when Nina reveals her darker side or when she seems to be struggling with herself the film takes on a more dangerous and even scary appearance.

I loved the way 'Black Swan’s' central story-line is actually an interpretation of Swan Lake. It makes you feel as though the film makers care about the story their telling. The ballet in the film is also wonderful, lead actresses Portman and Kunis apparently trained in ballet for a year prior to filming, for me the story highlighted the fact that a lot of people see ballet as boring and many dance companies are struggling to get funding so that they can keep on performing. It really wouldn’t surprise me if ballet shows found an increase in attendances this year… particularly if they are putting on Swan Lake. I myself found that I was captivated by the way the dancers moved and the emotion that can be portrayed through the dance, for this reason alone I think Natalie Portman defiantly deserves all the awards she has been nominated for.

In truth I haven’t seen a film that got me this excited in a long time, the story is so different and yet recognisable at the same time, you can relate to Nina and her struggle to succeed and changes she makes to herself in order to be accepted and yet although you will see yourself in the white swan you may also find you see a bit of yourself in the black swan too. Seriously, even if you hate ballet or romance go and see this film I bet that you will be pleasantly surprised. SAMANTHA SMITH.

YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD MAN DOWN

Owen Wilson's still 'so hot right now'!

By Tim David Harvey

Hollywood, it sure can be a m***********! Embracing and replacing all at the same time. Simply you either make it in this town or you don't. A couple of years ago one of this towns brightest and best stars suffered one of his worse and darkest days. Now understand this is not the topic of discussion here. That past part of this mans life is private and out of respect it will remain that here. Still now Owen Wilson is back in the public eye in a view brighter then ever it just shows and proves one notion true, you can't keep a good man down.

Whether sharing screen time with Stiller or Chan or going 'Beyond Enemy Lines' and his acting comfort zone, Wilson has always shined his brightest and worked his hardest. The charming, charismatic talent has been a favourite for the fellas in buddy comedies and a hit with the ladies in rom-coms. The approachable, boy next door, one of the guys persona has helped him line the silver screens with movie gold for years. From crashing weddings to hanging out with you and me as 'Dupree', Owen has owned comedies with his warmth and class. Just like Vince Vaughn's improv, or Will Ferrell's out-right craziness, this frat-pack member has his own signature style. That being the quirky, distinct, yet all-round nice guy that gets along with everybody.

This individual is unique, but no acquired taste, he's loved by all. Sure his young brother Luke is admired two, but big brother comes first. With that great versatile, ability of switching between off-beat comedies that are smart ('The Darjeeling Limited') and stupid ('Zoolander'...actually quite smart when you think about it), this clever character is dumb with talent. His open persona allows him to light up the screen and tackle any role all at the same time. This man can do anything and after enduring everything, he's now firmly back in business about to show a fickle, forgetful world of movies that he really is something.

After impressive turns in 'Drillbit Taylor', 'The Darjeeling Limited' and a cameo in 'Fantastic Mr. Fox', Wilson's work has remained sporadic. That all changed however when he talked like a dog in 'Marmaduke', a film that was a hit like 'Marley & Me' before it. Then it was time to 'Meet The Parent's' again. 'Little Fockers' was a hit and Owen was cast a bigger role like in the first movie, and again Owen owned every scene but had the diligence not to steal the show. A mark of a true professional. Now the world was watching Owen Wilson again. Wilson also built a foundation last fall with 'How Do You Know' alongside, like minded, likable character, Paul Rudd, Reese Witherspoon and Jack Nicholson, who was reunited with the guys that brought you 'As Good As It Gets'.

Things do look to get even better then this for Wilson however. 2011 looks to make Owen, once, twice, three times a leading man. The fall of 2010 was his return, but 2011 will be his year. This year the franchise guy will once again lend his distinct drawl and one-of-a-kind vocal talents to 'Cars 2', hoping to keep another one of his popular series' motoring on. Still it's the buddy comedy 'Hall Pass' with Jason Sudeikis, that from the trailers looks like the funniest film Wilson's been in since he walked down the aisle with Vince Vaughn. As Wilson looks to score big again, in more ways then one, we could be about to see a runaway, surprise hit. The film is about two guys given a one week, 'Hall Pass' by their wives to do anything they want. This film could be everything we've asked for from a Wilson picture. Owen can also mark Cannes as a destination as him, Woody Allen and a crop of Hollywood talent including Rachael McAdams and Adrien Brody are set to release the comedy 'Midnight In Paris'. This ensemble film looks to seal Owen's great run through 2010/2011 with a French kiss.

Then who knows what's next for the dynamic and diverse talent. Sure there will probably be no 'I Spy 2', (sorry Eddie) but you can still expect more from the man has played the perfect part in many great films. Whether it be his Chris Tucker to Jackie Chan in 'Shanghai Noon' and 'Shanghai Knights', his scene stealing role in 'The Royal Tenenbaums' or his ensemble in 'Armageddon'. You can also count on more collaborations with close friend, Ben Stiller. Their charm and chemistry has been set over 10 films and although the two guys could co-star with anyone if they wanted to, there's nothing quite like when they lead together. They've made good on all sorts of sequels, even with the 'Night At The Museum' project and the hotly anticipated 'Zoolander 2' is in the works. Now if we could just get a 'Starsky & Hutch' series.

Sure Wilson has kept working since his turbulent time in 2007, and with a high quality two, but right now the man is looking as hot as he's ever been right now. It's not about him being back in fashion like his Hansel character in 'Zoolander', its about him being back where he wants to be. The pure entertainer is back making people laugh and smile with his warmth once again. He's also just become a Dad, which is one part of his personal life we can shout about and celebrate. So congratulations to Owen Wilson and it sure is good to have him back. Nice guys don't always finish last.

REVIEW: THE DILEMMA

3.5/5

Vince & Kevin Are The Right Choice To make This Friday.

12A, 112 Minutes. Starring: Vince Vaughn, Kevin James, Winona Ryder, Jennifer Connelly, Channing Tatum & Queen Latifah. Director: Ron Howard.Screenplay: Allan Loeb

Forgot about deciding whether it's right to tell your best friend or not that his wife is cheating. I've got a dilemma for you. What do you do when your asked to go see a film that has received so much panning from critics that it can feel the cat from 'Tom & Jerry's' pain? Well you go see said film and enjoy it for yourself. Why? Well, because you won't know what the fuss is all about, because this movie is actually one of the more enjoyable things you'll see to start 2011. A year that in it's first month has already seen a lot of movies and a lot of disappointments too.

'The Dilemma' is a buddy/romantic comedy, with all the trimmings of hilarious comedy for grown ups that you'd expect from a picture like this. Versatile director Ron Howard knows how to bring the 'Happy Days' and the 'Beautiful Mind' drama. In this picture Vince Vaughn and Kevin James are best of buds and business partners on the verge of something big. Plus with beautiful ladies Winona Ryder and Jennifer Connelly by their side everything looks rosy. That is until, Vaughn gets between the roses and all sorts of flowers and witnesses James' wife Ryder doing the nasty on him with a greasy looking Channing Tatum. Now Vaughn has a choice tell his best friend or not. There is so much riding on this dilemma as both men are in critical parts of their lives. The ramifications and additional factors are huge.

This is where it gets funny and dramatic two. The human drama is turned up a notch on this one, especially when you don't expect it and all of these seasoned rom-com/diverse talents do their jobs as this film really works. Still when this film gets funny, it really gets going. It's refreshing to see a movie that's best bits aren't in the trailers. With Vaughn's trademark improvisation and James' trademark physical comedy both actors are on rib-tickling, rip-roaring form. Their effortlessly but enjoyably walking through the comedy and even showing they have the mettle for tougher scenes. This duo go so well together that you will swear you have seen them in a couple of films before and you'll be cursing if you don't see them in a few more to come.

The support in this film is great two. Queen Latifah once again shows that she has romantic comedy prestige as well as rap royalty. Her scenes are delightfully funny, if not a bit disturbing (you don't want to know about 'female wood', trust me). It's Channing Tatum though that almost steals the show as a overly sensitive thug. His scenes with Vince Vaughn really are among the funniest you'll see for awhile. From fighting to reconciliation the pair showcase a great class of comedy together, bringing their chemistry sets and taking the rest of this film to school.

From the great city view of classic Chicago, to the make or break lives, everything feels favourably familiar. Just like Vince's classic 'Break-Up' with Jennifer Aniston this film again is quoted as one chose because of "Vaughn's interest in tackling the dark areas of relationships". This is yet another great character study by the talents of Vince, comedies thinking man. Still this deep look masquerades as an enjoyable movie for the weekend as well. From the recently popular pastime of spying on trains (see 'Little Fockers', 'Meet The') to awkward toasts, it's clear to see this is a great movie that you can raise your glasses to. No dilemma is necessary here. Forget the advice their telling you. It's better you see this movie for yourself. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: MORNING GLORY

3/5

When this film rises, it shines.

12A, 107 Minutes. Starring: Rachel McAdams, Harrison Ford, Diane Keaton & Jeff Goldblum. Director: Roger Michell. Screenplay: Aline Brosh McKenna


So what's the story with this 'Morning Glory'? Well, what do you want from an early morning television show? Do you want entertainment, fun and public interest? This is what 'Daybreak', the fictional, floundering, flagship morning show of television network, 'IBS' in the new feature film 'Morning Glory' is missing. It's time for 'Daybreak' to wake up before this show is put to bed, for good.

So what does a receding television show need? Rejuvenation? A young, fresh approach maybe? Well this comes in the great form of Rachel McAdams, who in this film is the executive producer upstart given the reigns of 'Daybreak' by boss Jeff Goldblum. She and the show have one last shot to make it big. McAdams leads perfectly in this movie, being the pick me up that this plot needs. Now that really is a wake up call.

It's clear there are more ups and downs for 'Daybreak' then a lazy Sunday afternoon. When you have the talents of Diane Keaton on your show but you are in need of a co-host, (after Ty Burell's character get's fired after a hilarious cameo, back to the 'Modern Family' hey Ty?) who do you call? Well why not the classy, legendary presence of Harrison Ford? Sure his anchor and Keaton's may not get on in this picture but that just makes for great television, banter and dialogue for this movie. Sure this brew of talent may not be everyones cup of tea, but everything still goes down smoothly, in a warm movie that's just right.

What do you want from a film like this? Comedy? It's got it in the form of Harrion's deadpan and his back and forth with Keaton. Big laughs? Just wait until the show and this film really reaches for the ratings. With hilarious one liners and even funnier slapstick 'Morning Glory' really does make a day out of a good plot. Fresh like OJ, this film really has a helping of good bits.

What more do you want from a romantic comedy? Heart? Well just check out McAdams desire for a better love and work life, and her characters bravado as she balances the two. Or how abourt Ford's integrity? As on his return to the silver screen we really are reminded why we love this golden talent. If that isn't enough for you how about Diane Keaton's characters enthusiasm? Which rises as the ratings does. Or how about the city of New York? Where the heart of these city streets really keep the visual appeal of this film moving with every beat. Familiar and embracing, this film is warm like made coffee and sweet without the need for extra sugar.

What else do you want from an ensemble piece like this? How about great support? From another effortlessly, engaging performance from Jeff Goldblum, to great comic turn from character actors like John Pankow and Matt Malloy this picture really anchors in the talent. Or how about star studded apperances? As 50 Cent's brief apperance raps up the list of comedic cameos. Speaking of music what else do you want to hear from a classic, modern day romantic comedy like this? How about a soundtrack as diverse and as deep as one with a tracklist including everyone, from Corrine Bailey Rae to Dean Martin?

What else could you ask for from a film like this? A script that doesn't feel tired and a direction that rises to the occassion? Well you can have both these as this film get's better as the day goes on, just like it's subject's television show does. 'Morning Glory' is warm, affectionate, funny, enjoyable, light and entertaining. It's just like one of those feel-good mornings where you wake up on the right side of bed. Bright and uplifting it's time to tune into a show with more up and go. Now what else could you ask for from a film this Friday? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: CONVICTED

4.5/5

A genuine, real true story.

15, 107 Minutes. Starring: Hilary Swank, Sam Rockwell, Minnie Driver, Peter Gallagher, Melissa Leo & Juliette Lewis. Director: Tony Goldwyn. Screenplay: Pamela Gray

'Convicted' is a courtroom drama with as much tension as any before it, but beats more of heart. This picture is the portrait of a true story about a woman who sacrificed year after year of her life to prove her brothers innocence. Director, Tony Goldwyn is at the chair for the telling of this story of Kenny Waters who was arrested and convicted for murder without parole. Kenny's sister, Betty Anne Waters then sets out to prove his innocence, whatever the cost, whether it be Law School, her time or her personal life.

This impossible to believe, moving, true story is told perfectly by the unbelievable, emotional performances of the movies two leading lights. Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell are perfect in their portrayal of Betty Anne and Kenny respectively. Their performances in this picture go for both your gut and your heart. Swank delivers a career performance, just like when she was penned for 'Freedom Writers'. Rockwell, meanwhile continues to show his all-round versatility. The actor shows how he is able to go from the extremes of charismatic, cockiness (like his character in 'Iron Man 2') to the extremes of a broken man displayed here.

As dramatic as 'A Few Good Men' and as emotional as 'The Hurricane', Goldwyn holds court with all his directorial magic. He captures 1983 and the Waters 18 year struggle for freedom on camera with class and dignity. From evoking the drama of lost evidence to the hope of the 'Innocence Project' this picture passes the bar like it's main character.

Double Oscar winner Swank puts in another gold worthy, million dollar performance with her iron spirit and will. She really channels the highs and lows of her characters hopes and desperation's. While the talented Sam Rockwell delivers a career performance, making room in his trophy case while making the troubled, temper prone Waters likable in all his genuine spirit. You'll share both his joys and his frustrations, as the man is at times rightfully angry but also upbeat with inspiration and resilience.

The powerful, performances don't end their however. Minnie Driver is brilliant in her supporting role, (in more ways than one) as Betty Anne's classmate and best friend. While Melissa Leo takes yet another law enforcement role with a serious pinch of salty attitude. While Peter Gallagher leaves Orange County for a great, late in the day role as a defence lawyer. From friends and family the whole cast is relatively great. The best supporting role has to go to the ever versatile Juliette Lewis' portrayal as an alcoholic ex of Randy's. The singer/actress double talents are further shown by the transformation between her character over the years. In just two scenes, Juliette goes from one physical and mental extreme to another, just as much as Rockwell does...if not more.

Overall human drama doesn't get more powerful than this. From potent lows to pulsating highs, you'll want to cry both tears of joy and misery. Every aspect of every part played and every aspect of the character of the small town are given their full attention on the big screen. With so many great true story movies out this month, (let alone this year) 'Convicted' really wills out like the truth. Sure at times this film feels drawn out, but that's just to add to the realism and frustration of the story, (much in the same way classic, detective thriller, 'Zodiac' did). Besides the third act of this drama really is thrilling. This true story, that needs to be told really is brought to life in all it's conviction. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: 127 HOURS

3.5/5

On their latest trip, Boyle and Franco really draw you in.

15, 94 Minutes. Starring: James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara. Director: Danny Boyle. Screenplay: Simon Beaufoy & Danny Boyle

Hot on the latter years heels of Danny Boyle's Oscar winning, global sensation 'Slumdog Millionaire' comes '127 Hours', a true story set in the Utah, Salt Lake dessert's of Southwest America. This film stars really only 'Spiderman' and 'Pineapple Express'' James Franco (although, Amber Tamblyn and Kate Mara offer great support) as he portrays the true story of adventurer Aaron Ralston who slipped down a canyon and was trapped under a boulder in 2003.

As the title suggests (this film is based on the book, 'Between A Rock & A Hard Place', (which may have made an even better title). Aaron was trapped for over five days and to escape and survive he had to cut off his arm (NON SPOILER ALERT: everyone knows this already). Franco is perfect in this gruelling but entertaining piece, which thankfully in it's limited constricts doesn't feel like '127 Hours', or even it's one hour and a half run time.

This is because Franco is superb in his portrayal of Ralston, full of a potent mix of honesty and charisma and charm and heart. He is in parts funny, entertaining, moving, touching and most of all resilient. Franco really captures the elements of the real-life character of Aaron and all his bravery and genuine, personal qualities.

Boyle's direction is once more brilliant and yet again, on a different level, beyond run of the mill film making. From every cool camera angle to creative cut sequence and their respective techniques the sense of desperation and isolation is heightened. Boyle steps it up on this one, his enigmatic style looking effortless. Danny boy makes this all look like child's play he's so good.

The Salt Lake dessert is captured in all it's epic and vast beauty. It is the perfect backdrop for this film. As Aaron battles the elements and his own needs, hungers and thirsts, the odds against him and the will to live are mirrored justly and with dignity from this films director and it's leading man. The use of true-life imagery from the outside world further locks down this films realism. Aaron's visions in this film are also powerful and palpable, whether they be as poignant as family or as peculiar as 'Scooby Doo'. I told you this film was funny and touching.

Sure at many times this film is gruellingly, gruesome and horrendously, heart breaking but it's also uniquely uplifting. At times even euphoric, which in these days of movie desensitisation is the hallmark of superior film-making. The sense of terror is related by the audience when Aaron battles the different elements and the different struggles of keeping his head. The parallels in this film are used brilliantly two, adding the sense of the characters loneliness, from the company of strangers in a rush hour commute, to celebrations and commiseration's at a Utah Jazz basketball game.

Undoubtedly this is one of both Franco's and Boyle's finest and best. The star gives a career performance while the man behind the camera adds to his legend. There's nothing quite like this film...except for Ryan Reynolds hit 'Buried' last year that is. Both pictures deal with the senses of desperation and isolation perfectly. Both films are centred around the performance of one guy, constricted in one place. Both films also result in defining career points for two young, popular actors.

Sure 'Buried' may be more exciting but '127 Hours' is real, which makes it that much more powerful. For guys the only way to distinguish and choose is whether you prefer constant excitement or thought-provoking realism? As for girls it's who you'd rather be stuck in a confined space with for an hour and a half? Ryan Reynolds or James Franco? All joking aside however this is a seriously great film, but the real story that should be marvelled at here is the real life endurance story of courageous Aaron Ralston. Truly on another level. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

R.I.P. PETE POSTELTHWAITE (1946-2011)

We pay our respects today to legendary actor Pete Postlethwaite who passed away this weekend after a long illness. He was 64 years old. The hard worker starred in many films from Britain to Hollywood, ranging from 'Brassed Off' to 'Romeo + Juliet'. He even gave great significance to his roles in the best two movies of last year, with Christopher Nolan's 'Inception' and Ben Affleck's 'The Town'. There are too many great performances to mention, but they should be recognised. This versatile talent always put in his best work and the scene stealer was more than a character actor. Steven Spielberg once called him "the best actor in the world" and he was nominated for an Oscar in 1993. We will always remember Pete Postlethwaite for his incredible career and our thoughts go out to his family and friends. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

REVIEW: THE KING'S SPEECH

4.5/5

By royal appointment Colin Firth delivers his most regal performance.

12A, 118 Minutes. Starring: Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush, Guy Pearce, Michael Gambon, Timothy Spall, Derek Jacobi, Eve Best. Director: Tom Hooper. Screenplay: David Seidler

Mr. Darcy really has come a long way since 'Pride & Prejudice'. Colin Firth is quickly becoming one of the premier leading men, not just in England, but the world beyond Hollywood. Last year he almost struck Oscar gold with a defining performance in 'A Single Man'. So this year the Academy Award Nominee has the enlisted help of Academy Award Winner Geoffrey Rush in more ways than one.

'The Kings Speech' does exactly what it says on the Corgi, dog food tin. The film centres around dark and crucial times back in British history when it faced World War II with Hitler's Nazi Germany. You know your history. Still this really incredible, true story centres around a crucial Wartime address that Firth's King George VI, (or 'Bertie' as he was more affectionately known) must give. His brother (played brilliantly British by Aussie Guy Pearce) is too busy playing Prince Charming to be the King that England needs. So it's up to George to assume the throne, but pause...the King suffers from a stammer, which impedes his everyday life and if he's not careful will do the same to the confidence of his country.

So her royal highness, Elizabeth (played to the English tee by Helena Bonham Carter) seeks out another Australian, in the form of Geoffrey Rush's character (Lionel Logue) to help with King George's problem. What results is inspiration, drama, humour and fine film making. Firth really could be honored for this film...and I'm not just talking about by the Academy. Rush could also pick up his second Oscar as he takes off his Barbosa beard and stops playing Pirate games in a seriously stellar supporting role. The chemistry between these two is incredible, from the methodical rib tickling moments to the profoundly touching ones. It's what drives this film. This '2010 Toronto International Film Festival People's Choice Award' winner will need more room in it's trophy room.

This film is a direction of perfection, capturing the history and look of Great Britain impeccably. From the first address in Wembely, to the final salute in Buckingham Palace your so immersed in this movie you really do feel like it's a picture of history. The score is also solemnly sound and gloriously uplifting at the same time. Everything that this film does to take you back in time is captured just the right way. Even Winston Churchill is portrayed flawlessly by Timothy Spall, and you thought Tarantino did a good job on 'Inglorious Basterds', two thumbs up.

Speaking of the supporting cast, everyone speaks for themselves with standout performances across the board. From Guy Pearce's undeniable smarm, to Rush's classy charm. Mrs. Tim Burton also furthers her legend with a performance that is more Helen Mirren than Queenie from 'Blackadder'. There is also a whole host of classic British talent from Derek Jacobi to Michael Gambon rounding out the cast.

The crown jewel of this piece however is Firth, who delivers a classic performance as King George. Troubled but determined, Colin captures George perfectly, hook, line and Golden February awards sinker, and you thought he did well as a single man. This film is beyond inspiring, primarily because of it's stars influential performance. If you can't imagine how hard it is to suffer from a stutter, imagine how hard it is to act like this with dignity, poise and convincing assertiveness. Still Firth's portrayal does this with class, speaking sheer volumes. This isn't just the performance of the year, it's the performance of Firth's career. After all, as this film teaches, great men where meant to lead. Time to follow. TIM DAVID HARVEY.