Well worth your time

Rating: 8/10 (21 January 2015)

The Imitation Game is a very interesting movie about a little known aspect of World War II, that of the breaking of the German code. Many reviews and articles have been written about the screenwriter taking liberties with the actual facts. While this is true, the story that was put on the screen is exciting, humorous, thought-provoking, and, ultimately, sad. I think any movie recreating a true story or a person's life has to take some liberties with facts to make it understandable and enjoyable (and short ;-)). The Imitation Game in no way detracts from the accomplishments of all the real participants in the story, at least for me.
There has also been discussion of the failure of the movie to more "boldly" address Alan Turing's homosexuality. I don't believe the film makers needed to emphasize it. His homosexuality was part of his personality, just as his apparent social awkwardness was. It was treated respectfully and made the closing scenes even more heartbreaking.
The acting was wonderful, particularly Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, and the young man who portrayed young Alan Turing. Costumes, cinematography, production design, and music were first rate. The wartime special effects were not, however, entirely convincing. But on the whole, the movie is well worth seeking out.