Film commands extra screenings in Lowestoft

WITH a royal nod of approval, 12 Oscar nominations, a Golden Globe for Best Actor and 14 BAFTA Nominations, The King's Speech has had a phenomenal couple of months.

Tonight it opens at the Marina Theatre and the demand for tickets has been so high that the Lowestoft venue has announced that it will extend its run into March.

The film follows George VI, also known as Bertie, who reluctantly takes the throne of England when his brother, Edward, abdicates in 1936. The unprepared king turns to a radical speech therapist, Lionel Logue, to help overcome his nervous stutter, and the two forge a friendship.

The film, which stars Colin Firth and Helena Bonham Carter, has already sold a record number of advanced tickets for the Marina and looks to be the most popular film to play there since Mamma Mia.

Theatre manager Martin Halliday said: 'We are delighted that the film is proving so popular – not since Mamma Mia have we had such great advanced bookings for a film.'

Screenings are at 7.30pm from tonight until next Friday, with 2.30pm matinees on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

There will also be extra screenings at 4.45pm on Thursday, February 24; 1pm on Friday, February 25; 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Monday, February 28; 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Tuesday, March 1; 7.30pm on Wednesday March 2; and 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Thursday, March 3.

l To book call the box office on 01502 533200.