Thursday 1 January 2015

150W: The Imitation Game

Short reviews for clear and concise verdicts on a broad range of films...


The Imitation Game (Dir. Morten Tyldum/2014)

Benedict Cumberbatch plays mathematical mastermind Alan Turing in sincere awards-fodder drama, The Imitation Game. Cumberbatch, Kiera Knightley and Matthew Goode all live up to their classically-trained, acting expectations. But the narrative seems intent on ticking boxes to gain critical plaudits. Veering between his life at an independent boy’s school and his cracking of the Enigma code, The Imitation Game juxtaposes his heroic achievements with his prohibited sexuality. This leaves a jarring lack of connection between his personal and professional exploits. In a desperate hook for a young-demographic, Cumberbatch portrays Turing as The Social Network’s Zuckerberg as his snarky remarks and arrogance are condoned considering his accepted genius. The justifying of death on the front line and ‘government-mandated’ hormone treatment hint at darker shades, but they’re not the focus. Instead, it’s an imitation of true-stories we’ve seen before. Stroppy arguments, fractitious friendships and a “challenging” subplot set in a historical period.

Rating: 6/10

Extra -  Even the poster rips off The Social Network too ... 

 

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