Quick camera shots of a 1930s microphone accompanied by clever and melodic piano tunes open another stunning British film in which Colin Firth is the shining star.

“The King’s Speech,” directed by Tom Hooper, tells the story of Albert Frederick Arthur George, Duke of York (Firth), whose prominent speech impediment promotes an unexpected yet exceptionally complementary relationship with Lionel Logue, a speech therapist played by the incomparable Geoffrey Rush.

The film, taking place in London just before England declares war on Germany in 1939, engagingly paints a portrait of Albert, nicknamed “Bertie,” the stammering son of King George V. At the beginning of the film, Albert reluctantly agrees to accompany his loving wife Elizabeth (Helena Bonham Carter) to yet another speech therapy appointment, in an attempt to correct his humiliating imperfection.

Here he meets Logue, a modest Australian whose quirky mannerisms, confident tone and unconventional methods of speech correction initially shock and upset Albert. Logue insists on calling the duke “Bertie,” emphasizing equality between the therapist and patient, and their sessions include rolling on the floor and rounds of heavy cursing and singing. Logue’s direct and witty comments bring humor to the film as this commoner cleverly disregards the norms of interacting with royalty.

Albert’s remarkably uncomfortable attempts to speak are well-emphasized by the cinematography of the film – shots of Firth’s face and mouth fill the screen so that even the audience feels nervous every time he talks and attempts to make words in between stutters and clucking sounds.

Logue’s optimism and will to succeed offset Albert’s lack of self-confidence and constant embarrassment. Meanwhile, Logue is aided by Albert’s wife, Elizabeth, who shows unfailing support for her husband. Bonham Carter’s role is modest but crucial, and she plays it flawlessly.

Not unexpectedly, Albert’s trust of Lionel grows throughout the film. The strength and courage in Albert slowly emerge from their hiding place, as does the truth of his sad childhood. As in many other British films, the drama and imperfections of the royal family are revealed by Albert’s past as well as through the actions of Albert’s careless older brother David, who becomes King Edward VIII (Guy Pearce). David’s relationship with the divorcée Wallis Simpson (Eve Best) leads to his abdication of the crown in favor of Albert.

The upcoming coronation adds to the intensity and stress of the plot, as Albert and his speech are put to the test. He must prove himself to his country and provide his people with the moral leadership and courage they will need for the trials ahead. The pressure of his family, the press and the nation is on.

Colin Firth has just nabbed the Golden Globe for best male performance in a motion picture drama, and rumors of Academy Award nominations for “The King’s Speech” are no surprise. This film sits at the top of the year’s movies. And wears a crown.