Triumphant portrayal of a genius

Rating: 8/10 (15 July 2015)

I absolutely enjoyed every minute of this movie. There wasn't a single wasteful moment as all of the focus and attention was constantly on Alan and his incessant and obsessive quest to decipher the enigma and it's messages. I didn't really know anything about him before watching so I did wonder as the movie progressed whether it was his exceptionally high intelligence that presented a barrier for his personality that saw him come across as cold and a 'monster'. When we learn of his hidden homosexuality during a time where it was legally punishable we then see underneath the surface and realise that he has been bearing a burden for a number of years. We see how his work saved potentially millions of lives and are compelled to feel utterly helpless and disgusted at the way he was treated thereafter on account of his sexuality. Fortunately for us we live in a better world than he did. Such a man did not deserve persecution and a tragic, inglorious end but I cherish the fact that this fantastically acted portrayal has shed some light on Alan's story and acts as a form of gratitude to his incalculable achievements. Cumberbatch is utterly compelling in his role as Alan, and the supporting roles are to a man magnificent. Very worthy watching.