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 ...
