Colin Firth rocking the geek chic look (Picture: Getty)

Colin Firth is back on the big screens in Before I Go To Sleep, released today (Friday, September 5).

The quintessential British nice guy of film first landed on many people’s radar when he jumped in a lake for the Pride and Prejudice TV adaptation back in 1995.

Since then, he has won numerous awards and plenty of fans.

Now, in Before I Go to Sleep, Firth plays Ben, the husband of an amnesiac who struggles to cope with her illness, an incredibly complex role in which he is sure to shine.


Based on the book by SJ Watson, the film is a thriller with a cast that also includes Mark Strong and Firth’s former The Railway Man co-star, Nicole Kidman.



So what is it about Colin Firth that makes him such a joy to watch?

1. He can break your heart

Firth knows how to convey heart-breaking emotion in a powerful, stoic manner.

With roles including The King’s Speech, A Single Man and The Railway Man – and even, perhaps, Love Actually – Firth has broken our hearts on many occasions.

And we’ve relished every moment of it.

Someone pass me a tissue…

2. His superb silliness

Despite how serious and powerful his films can be, Firth isn’t afraid to be silly in them too.

Just take the St Trinian films or Nanny McPhee.

3. He’s got moves

His Mr Darcy might not have been much for dancing but Firth certainly knows how to let loose on the dance floor.

4. That self-deprecating British humour

Firth knows how to poke fun at himself and did so beautifully in Bridget Jones and many other films where his bumbling Englishman persona was used to his advantage in order to add to the humour of the piece.

The fight between him and Hugh Grant was hilarious.

5. The brave style choices

Whether it be modern day suave, period piece class or Christmas jumper ridiculous, Firth somehow remains a man of great style. He’s been through an impressive array of eyewear over the years too.

6. His excellent manners

Especially in the most awkward of situations.

7. His superb acting talent

At the heart of it all, Firth really is an incredible actor.

He takes on complex characters full of conflict and turmoil and, no matter how serious or silly a film might be, he always brings his absolute best.

8. His restrained yet powerful performances



Less is more and Firth certainly knows how to convey a plethora of emotion with just one glance.

His brilliant restraint makes the scenes when he finally lets go all the more shocking and the impact on audiences that much greater.

Even during his most quiet, calm and controlled moments, it’s hard to look away.

9. That. Lake. Scene.

Oh, Mr Darcy.