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British King Crowned in Hollywood at Oscars


The Kings Speech, an engaging but seemingly improbable British film, was crowned as Best Picture at the Oscars. The Coronation in Hollywood, rather like George VI’s coronation in London in May 1937, seemed unlikely, but then emerged as the perfect choice.

The movie recounts the trials and tribulations of King George VI, who wrestles with a terrible speech impediment, as he is unexpededly thrust into the role of Monarch, following the abdication of his wayward brother, the uncrowned, Edward VIII.

The historic film, whose splendid era costumes and art deco setting recall the golden haze of pre-war Britain, and recount the Monarch who still reigned over one quarter of the world, including India, vast swaths of Africa, and the Caribbean. Importantly George VI the wartime King, ruled over Britain during WWII between 1939-1945.

Colin Firth, won Best Actor for his portrayal of the King. At its annual gala celebration of cinema, the Academy Awards in total awarded four Oscars to this British film.