Plot Points
Where does the first public speaking event take place?
Wembley Stadium - The closing ceremony of the British Empire's World Showcase
Who is Bertie's wife?
Elizabeth
What condition does Bertie struggle with?
A stammer/studder.
What country does the film take place?
The United Kingdom, Great Britain or England
Who in Bertie's life provide him with the most support and encouragement? and who in his life create more self-esteem issues for him?
Lionel, Elizabeth, and their children.
His father, and brother.
What method does Bertie try at first to stop stammering?
Smoking and speaking with marbles in his mouth.
What does Lionel Logue do for a living?
Speech Therapist
What is the technique that Lionel first uses that ultimately convinces Bertie to go back to see him?
Reading while listening to loud music.
What global event begins near the end of the film?
World War II
What role does friendship play in the story?
It helps Bertie build confidence and trust.
What happens that causes Bertie to return to Lionel after quitting therapy?
His brother David abdicates, or steps down, from the thrown.
What royal family member abdicates the throne?
Bertie's older brother David, known as King Edward VIII
What emotion usually triggers Bertie's worst stammering?
Anxiety or stress
Fear or Nervousness
Why was public speaking so important for kings during this time, compared to before?
The invention of the radio meant that their speeches would be broadcast on the radio for everyone to hear.
What is the difference between David's sense of Royal Duty and Bertie's?
David puts his personal life ahead of royal duty, while Bertie accepts his duty with grace, even though he doesn't want to.
What is Bertie's official Title after he becomes King?
King George VI
What quality makes Lionel different from Bertie's previous doctors?
He treats Bertie as an equal and a friend.
How does Lionel support Bertie during speeches?
He coaches him, stays with him, and calms him, which gives Bertie confidence.
Why did David, or King Edward VII, have to step down because he wanted to marry Wallis Simpson?
When do we see a major change in Bertie's self-doubt?
When he's able to successfully give his speech.
What speech marks the climax of the movie?
His declaration of war speech that he must give on the radio.
What does Bertie learn about Lionel's creditials?
Lionel is not a licensed doctor.
What deeper cause is suggested for Bertie's speech problems?
Childhood traumas, pressure from family and the royal lifestyle, and lack of confidence.
Why did Lionel's Australian background matter?
It made him an outsider in the British High Society, which caused skepticism.
What is one of the main themes of the film?
perseverance
friendship
duty
Overcoming fears/obstacles