‘The King’s Speech’ opens Dubai film fest, Firth feels honoured

DUBAI - Colin Firth starrer “The King’s Speech” opened the 7th edition of the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) here and renowned British actor says he is humbled by the honour.

“I can honestly say that this is an honour for me and I am full of gratitude for His Excellency and the Dubai film festival for hosting the film here,” Firth told the audience before the screening of the film Sunday.

The film shows how the Duke of York (Colin Firth), a shy man afflicted with a dreadful stammer, goes through unorthodox treatment and finally gives a significant speech on BBC radio when he succeeds his father King George V, as King George VI, before World War II.

Fresh from significant honours in Canada and Britain, the Oscar favourite also stars Geoffery Rush, Guy Pearce and Helena Bonham Carter.

On the opening day, the festival, which will continue till Dec 19, rolled out the red carpet for the world’s luminaries in cinema and Firth was the first one to grace it.

He was followed by a galaxy of stars like Sarah Wayne Callies in a vintage gold sequined dress; Carey Mulligan, who came dressed in a simple grey and pink outfit; Egyptian actor Mustafa Fahmy and Arabic director Mohamed Diab.

“The DIFF team has spent the last 357 days planning the opening night and and we are very proud of what we have been able to achieve,” said Abdulhamid Juma, chairman of the Dubai International Film Festival.

“The seventh edition will be extra special not only for the powerful showcase of movies from around the world and impressive talent line-up of globally acclaimed actors and directors, but also for the largest selections of quality and contemporary Arab cinema anywhere in the world,” he added.

The eight-day fest includes 157 films from 57 countries from South America to South Korea, a robust competition segment, a thriving film market and bigger public interaction.

The venue is also hosting the festival’s popular Rhythm & Reels segment featuring music-linked films and a series of open-air concerts.