TIFF ’10: Tom Hooper’s ‘King’s Speech’ declared an Oscar lock

By Sean O’Connell Hollywoodnews.com: Strong buzz for Tom Hooper’s film created massive lines, and those hoping to rush the theater were left out in the cold. But plenty of others filled the seats at Roy Thompson Hall last night, and reaction to “King’s Speech” this morning is very strong … especially with regards to the Oscar race. Peter Howell, writing in the Toronto Star, calls Hooper’s film “the fest’s first major Oscar player,” adding that “everything from Best Picture on down” is sure to be considered by the Academy. Steven Zeitchik speculates in the L.A. Times that “Speech” could be the Oscar contender Harvey Weinstein wanted “A Single Man” to be. Borys Kit writes in the Hollywood Reporter that the Weinstein Co. “may have a serious awards contender on its hands.” Kit says the Gala audience “shot to their feet for a standing ovation, cheering, whistling and hollering,” and added that the film “has best picture and best actor nominations written all over it. And maybe best screenplay, best director and best supporting actor, too.” And Erik Childress of eFilmCritic tweets, “You can lock up The Kings Speech for at least 5 oscar nods: picture, actor (firth), support actor (rush), screenp,lay & cinematography.” This mirrors responses for “Speech” out of Telluride, as well. So expect “King’s Spech” to be in it for the long haul, as Weinstein Co. rides this horse to another potential Best Picture nomination … and maybe a win. Follow Hollywood News on Twitter for up-to-date news information. Hollywood News, Hollywood Awards, Awards, Movies, News, Award News, Breaking News, Entertainment News, Movie News, Music News,