Moving, inspiring and heart breaking

Rating: 10/10 (31 December 2014)

I knew a little about the code breakers at Bletchley Park, having read 'Station X' by Michael Smith a long time ago. Alan Turing's name was familiar, but I knew little about him outside of the story of the code breakers, and it was just happening to hear the main theme on 'Classic FM' that actually made me really want to see this on cinema, rather than wait for it to come on DVD! There are those complaining about it not being 'accurate'- its not a biography for heaven's sake. It is a film, so yes, not all of it will absolutely be true to life. Ignore those moaners! This is a beautifully made, heartfelt film, with an outstanding performance by the cast. Benedict Cumberbatch in particular deserves praise for his performance. If he doesn't get a BAFTA/Oscar for his wonderful portrayal of the tortured genius Alan Turing, then I'll be very surprised. Even the usually bland Keira Knightley does well, giving the first credible performance of her career.
This is a film in which I hope will make more people aware of, and interested in, the Bletchley Park code breakers. The dreadful 'U571' tried to make out the Americans captured Enigma and not the British, which was a deliberate inaccuracy that should not have been allowed.(That is the kind of inaccuracy that DOES matter, as it was rewriting a vital piece of history. Not on.) It is good to see the British code breakers getting the credit they deserve in The Imitation Game.
This is a rare film for me, in which I found it very hard to shake off after seeing it. I couldn't concentrate on anything, but had to sit there thinking about it and crying!-and you'll know why if you go and see it, which I heartily recommend you do.