The last couple of years have not really produced much for discerning adults in the area of good films to go and see at the cinema, however this year has given us a gem in ‘The King’s Speech’ which, for me personally, was a sheer joy. I am, in fact, going to see it for a second time very soon and I only do that if a film is particularly special.

There are many great moments in this film but one of the highlights is, of course, the musical score. I always notice the soundtrack when watching a film because the music can, for me, make or break the experience. Who could fail to be moved during the scene where the King delivers his speech to the nation on the outbreak of war? a defining moment in the reign of King George VI was the address he made to the British nation when war was declared against Germany and how inspired was the choice to choose the music of Beethoven to accompany this particular scene. The second movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No.7 – in the wonderful key of A minor (I am a violist, I love the minors…) – with it’s atmosphere of both intense foreboding (the struggle ahead) and the absolute determination to overcome all obstacles (victory at all costs). Just an incredible combination of sight and sound. And after the film ended, while the credits rolled hardly anyone moved from their seats while the closing music played – I have only ever seen that happen once and that was during the closing credits of ‘Amadeus’ when people sat transfixed by the beautiful piano concerto no.20 in D minor.

I hope as many people as possible turn out and see this film; in many ways the British people need to be reminded of what great leadership this country had at such a time and how important, especially at this time in history, it is to remember what can be achieved by the people in this nation when they believe in themselves and each other. Looking out the window at the rest of the world right now, I believe the time is coming once more for such a thing.