THE KING’S SPEECH Poised For A Sequel?

© The Weinstein Company

Will Colin Firth assume the role of King George VI once again in a sequel to Oscar winner THE KING’S SPEECH? Reports from the UK Press Association and Movieline are saying so.

The 52-year-old star, who scooped a Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of King George VI in the 2010 historical drama, has agreed to reprise the role for a follow-up set during the Blitz, reports The Sun. The film is apparently in the “very early stages” but if it does go ahead it seems Colin’s co-stars Helena Bonham Carter and Geoffrey Rush are also likely to return.

A source said: “The sequel is going to be about the experience of families during the Blitz. It will focus on how the privileged Royal Family was hit by the crisis, compared to the more ordinary family of George VI’s speech therapist.

“The focus will be on George but it will also show how the whole royal household was affected. There’s still amazing interest in the Blitz. The movie is still in the very early stages but everyone’s keen to get going soon.”

Why not? There’s is a wealth of material for a part two where “Bertie” bravely led England through the war. George VI and his wife resolved to stay in London, despite German bombing raids. They officially stayed in Buckingham Palace throughout the war, although they usually spent nights at Windsor Castle.  World War II took it’s toll on the Monarch and George VI passed away in 1952 from a coronary thrombosis in his sleep at the age of 56.

THE KING’S SPEECH won Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay.

© The Weinstein Company

At the 83rd Academy Awards, after director Tom Hooper won the Oscar for Best Director, he came into the pressroom (as all winners do) where I asked him about a possible sequel. I’m a tried-and-true monarchist so I was understandably curious. Nevermind I LOVED the film and truly wanted it to win.

Q. Congratulations on the Oscar. I was wondering if you and the producers and Colin, with all the historical source material, have considered a sequel?

A. I think that will be a little difficult, as my film was about a man overcoming his stammering, and he definitely has overcome it. I think you are going to have to look elsewhere for the next one.

I got the distinct impression he thought I was daft for even posing such a question. No matter the case, if a sequel comes to fruition there’s no guarantee he will be at the helm. However I’d like to see Hooper sign on as director again. I am looking forward to another chapter in The House of Windsor if and when The Weinstein Company announces that a film is in the works.