Compelling story marred by an overly melodramatic approach !!!!

Rating: 7/10 (9 January 2015)

The positives are Benedict Cumberbatch (of course) and a non-linear screenplay which is innovative(for a biopic).The film made me aware of a great man whose unbelievable achievements and gifts to mankind I was completely unaware of(as were most viewers).
But the problem with the film for me is the style of storytelling and direction. In order to make this a film suitable for everyone in the family,the director almost completely took off all the hard edges of the storyline which made the film look like a TV film. There are too many clichéd characters like the ones played by Charles Dance,Keira Knightley,etc. It reminded me of "A Beautiful Mind" although that was a much better film. It is just too melodramatic and abundant with Hollywood clichés almost reminiscent of The King's Speech.
It is still a good film, but I expected much more from a movie that has been lauded by so many critics. However, its sappy,sugarcoated nature will make it a contender at the Oscars.