Weinstein Prepare ‘Speech’ for 2010

If finances weren’t on the rebound, the Weinsteins wouldn’t be making announcements like this one – especially of the rights bought before the principal photography type. TWC have picked up multiple territory rights (including their own turf) to The King’s Speech. Tom Hooper (John Adams) will take the director’s chair and project will include a pair of actors who, at this point in their careers, must be fed up with playing dress up. At least Brit/Aussie actors have a corner of the market covered – anything having to do with 16th to 18th. Lensing begins this year for a 2010 release. 

The King’s Speech tells the story of the man who would become King George VI, the father of the current Queen, Elizabeth II. After his brother abdicates, George ‘Bertie’ VI (Colin Firth) reluctantly assumes the throne. Plagued by a dreaded nervous stammer and considered unfit to be King, Bertie engages the help of an unorthodox speech therapist named Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush). Through a set of unexpected techniques, and as a result of an unlikely friendship, Bertie is able to find his voice and boldly lead the country into war.

Iain Canning and Emile Sherman of See-Saw Films, and Gareth Unwin of Bedlam Productions. Bedlam’s Simon Egan will act as co-producer on the film.