The Imitation Game: A Review

The father of the modern computer, Alan Turing, played a vital role in the defeat of Nazi Germany during WWII. Along with a group of other British geniuses, Turing was able to develop the first computer, consequently cracking the Nazi code machine Enigma, and allowing him to map out where and when all of the Nazi attacks were going to occur, saving over 14 million lives.

However, despite the fact that he essentially won WWII for the Allies, his story is not that well-known. Luckily, the release of The Imitation Game this December has helped Turing get some of the recognition he deserves.

With a captivating leading performance by Benedict Cumberbatch, the film follows the struggles Turing faces as he tries to connect and cooperate with his comrades in order to successfully crack the Enigma code.

Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Turing is graceful, complex, and rather endearing. As an eccentric genius Turing has a difficult time understanding and socializing with his peers because he views the world in a very literal way. His arrogance and lack of humor alienate him, but as Cumberbatch artfully captures the many different aspects of Turing’s persona, the beautifully human side of the man who parallels himself to a machine is unveiled.

Through the impeccable set design and wonderful performances from all of the supporting actors, Turing’s life and relationships are truly brought to life. The film is intelligent, and leaves the audience with a lot of important things to question about society.

The movie moves between three different points in Turing’s life, which can be kind of confusing at times, but apart from that it stands as one of the best movies of the year.

If anything, see this movie to watch Cumberbatch shine in a role reminiscent of his Sherlock Holmes. More than that, however, see this movie to witness one of the most tragic, powerful, and important lives of all time.

To quote the film, “Sometimes it is the people no one imagines anything of who do the things that nobody can imagine”

Turing is the embodiment of this quote, and when brought to life by Cumberbatch the result is truly inspiring. A must-see for everyone.