The abusive and neglectful childhood experiences of King George VI led him to develop a stuttering speaking pattern, a problem that is the subject of the motion picture, “The King’s Speech.” It felt like Colin Firth totally immersed himself into the characterization of King George, and Geoffrey Rush, playing the king’s speech therapist, gave an equally a sublime performance.  The movie really hit home for me as I connected with two major themes: how the king worked terribly hard to overcome those negative childhood experiences, and how he did it with love and with the help of someone he grew to trust implicitly.

As I’ve shared previously about my childhood trials and tribulations, learning about the king’s childhood experiences was very moving to me.  Knowing that he was not the expectant heir to the throne, his governess ignored him, which caused him to be starved for three years in his early formative years.  I was so struck by this, and how the result of this abuse and neglect manifested itself in the development of his stuttering speech impediment.

Perhaps because of my experiences and empathy, I connected to something we had in common.  As young abused children, both of us felt powerless to speak up to our parents about what was happening to us.  We were, in a word, “voiceless.”

There comes a time, if we’re fortunate and brave enough to have a turning point, for overcoming the experiences that led to our low self-esteem.  The scenes between Firth and Rush were entirely satisfying to watch, seeing the prince, familiarly known as Bertie, work with his mentor to overcome his speech impediment, and his fear that he couldn’t succeed as a public speaker and as a leader.  At times their relationship was portrayed as rocky, even fiery.  It’s not surprising, given the initial secrecy of their meetings, the prince’s self-doubts as an extension of his self-esteem issues, and the doubts placed upon the relationship by the would-be-king’s handlers that they had challenges to overcome above and beyond the work to triumph over the stuttering.

So much of their relationship, especially the close bond they developed, and the positive outcome that came from their work together, reminds me of the amazing relationships I am fortunate to have developed with clients over the years.  Just as the prince’s belief in the speech therapist’s unconventional practices legitimized the methods and helped the monarch make progress, it totally parallels the day-to-day experiences I have with my clients.

I absolutely loved “The King’s Speech.” Between the compelling story and acting, there’s something we all are able to connect with on varying levels.

What are your reactions to “The King’s Speech?” Have you worked with someone considered unconventional who profoundly impacted your life?

Joseph Rosenfeld helps high-profile individuals revitalize, manage, and be secure in their personal visual brand. Visit JosephRosenfeld.com for details.

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