The Imitation Game, 4 Stars

This is a superb film and gets one of my highest ratings. It's a great story, somewhat known, that is intriguing in itself. But the moral and philosophical parts of the story are equally intriguing, especially when viewed from an era 70+ years later.

There are not many better male actors alive (and currently performing) today than Benedict Cumberbatch (Star Trek: Into Darkness). He is known for immersing himself in the parts he plays and this is once again true here. He is brilliant and should pick up a few 'Best Male Actor' awards for 2014.

Two of his many capable counterparts are Keira Knightley (Pride & Prejudice) and Matthew Goode (Belle), who are also very effective in their roles.

I will definitely see this again, perhaps often and I recommend it to you highly.

The Good Lie, 2.5 Stars

This is an okay film. The trailer is not totally accurately portrayed in that it starts with what feels like a 20 minute documentary about Sudan and its war and strife.

The rest of the film is based in the U.S. and is about three Sudanese refugees immigrating, none of whom were (actor's) names that I recognized. Reese Witherspoon (Walk the Line) plays one of the workers helping them get settled. The other actors are equally unknown.

Generally, a good film with a good story that moves slowly. It's compelling but not enough to see it again.