Auckland teen on screen in King's Speech

Colin Firth and Helena Bonham-Carter in 'The Kings Speech'. Photo / Supplied

Auckland teenager Ben Wimsett is among the cast of a film tipped to be the big winner at this year's Academy Awards.

The 13-year-old, who now lives in Britain, plays Anthony Logue, son of speech therapist Lionel Logue, in the movie The King's Speech.

Based on the true story of George VI, the film is about the King's lifelong battle with a speech impediment that makes it almost impossible for him to string a sentence together.

The film is proving to be a hit with movie-goers and has gained dozens of acknowledgments, among them 12 Academy Award nominations - including for Best Picture, Best Actor and Best Director - and 14 Bafta Award nominations.

Ben, who attended Kristin School in Albany, is excited about what is his biggest role yet.

"It was awesome. Really fun working with Geoffrey Rush and it was pretty cool being in front of a camera.

"I'd never really met such a famous actor before - quite inspiring."

He said he was looking forward to more acting roles, but was also focusing on his school work.

Ben is not the only New Zealander in the film. His on-screen brother, Laurie Logue, is played by Calum Gittins. The 25-year-old is the son of Oscar-winning screenwriter Philippa Boyens and is known for his roles on The Lord of the Rings and as Jake Valentine on Shortland Street.