TIFF next stop for Oscar hopeful

Fresh off a sneak peek at the Telluride Film Festival on the weekend, Oscar buzz is already surrounding The King’s Speech starring Colin Firth. Next stop for the film – its North American premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The King’s Speech tells the story of the man who would become King George VI - the father of Queen Elizabeth II, who reluctantly assumes the British throne after his brother abdicates. The King (played by Firth) is plagued by a nervous stammer and engages the help of an unorthodox speech therapist played by Geoffrey Rush, leading him to find his voice and boldly lead the country into war.

Praise for the drama is rolling in following Telluride, with IndieWire reporting on the weekend that the film is “the big worship winner and potential Oscar magnet” from the festival, while The Hollywood Reporter says the film “has provoked talk of widespread awards recognition.”

Meanwhile, Deadline Hollywood says Firth and Rush are “sure-thing nominees” and the film is a “strong Best Picture prospect”.

The King’s Speech also stars Helena Bonham Carter and Guy Pearce.

The film is set for a gala premiere at TIFF on Friday at Roy Thomson Hall, with Firth and Rush expected to attend.