It’s fascinating just how little some of us know about history, and how we don’t seem to realise it. Take me for example: I don’t know jack-shit about World War 1 or 2. I know the basics, but it turns out I’m very shoddy on the details. It makes me feel quite out of place, considering most people I know would be rather clued up on it (A friend of mine in particular taking huge interest in it), with some of them taking history and others just being interested. But whilst for the most part I have to sit quietly during conversations about it, one good thing about it, or really about any subject you don’t know too much about, is there is always the opportunity to learn. And for anyone like me who doesn’t know a whole lot about World War 2, I think you’ll find The Imitation Game to be a great learning experience.
Now, where to even begin with this masterpiece? First of all, lets’ talk performances; there isn’t a bad one in sight. Matthew Goode? More like Matthew Excellent (I’m so ashamed, but at the same time, I’m so not)! Goode churns out great performances all the time, and this one is no exception. You know that one person you can’t stand but you have to put up with? Matthew Goode is essentially doing a performance of you, and he does a fantastic job. Keira Knightley has returned to her lovely British accent (following a few films where she went all American and it sounded terrible,) and as usual does a great job as a leading lady. She showcases the power of this woman in a time when women were essentially powerless. Charles Dance and Mark Strong are both delightfully authoritative and British.
But of course, it is the film’s lead that takes the cake for best performance. Yes, this is me praising Benedict Cumberbatch. I know it doesn’t happen often but after this, it’s going to happen a lot more. Benedict’s performance is phenomenal; he brings Alan Turing to life. His social ineptness, his desperation, his intelligence, his pain, this all comes through beautifully. Expect a lot of anger if he doesn’t get nominated for or win an Oscar.
But what The Imitation Game really does, other than be an exceptional film and educate on WW2, is introduce audiences (mainly younger ones) to a man who does not get the recognition he deserves. Alan Turing, as well as the rest of his team, was a key factor in ending the war. He’s a hero. They all are. His machine did so many wonders. And yet, it’s not often you hear people praise him. Well hopefully now he’ll be praised more often, he’ll be talked about and he’ll be thanked by the younger generations who didn’t even have a clue who he was.
Overall, The Imitation Game is a stunning film, with exceptional performances and all the makings of a fantastic drama, plus it’s one of the best films of the year. Let’s hope it sweeps up at the Oscars!
The Imitation Game is out in cinemas now!