Rating: 4 Pulses
Starring: George Clooney, Tom Wilkinson, Sydney Pollack
Directed by Tony Gilroy
Rated R
George Clooney might have earned another Oscar nod with his performance in Michael Clayton?only this time in a leading role category.
First-time director Tony Gilroy brings us the compelling story of Michael Clayton (Clooney), a “fixer” at a prestigious New York law firm who’s only job is to sew up any loose ends that might arise within the office.
Clayton is pushed to the edge when top attorney Arthur Edens (Wilkinson) seemingly has a mental breakdown during a major class-action suit. Clayton is sent in to get Edens back on track and finish the six-year, $3-billion case. ##M]read more]##
Clooney’s acting really brings his character to life. By allowing the audience to see the strain of balancing his family life, insurmountable debt, gambling addiction and, of course, work, filmgoers get sucked into a story that may otherwise be difficult to follow.
Writer and director Tony Gilroy is no stranger on the Hollywood scene. His other writing credits include the Bourne series, Armageddon, and The Devil’s Advocate. His first-time effort in the director’s chair should earn him a lot of praise.
Clayton is definitely a movie that benefits from having a writer/director in one. By combining the two, it offers viewers the opportunity to truly experience what the creator wanted to convey.
The mood of the film can be summed up in just a few, well-directed scenes. The long, drawn-out cuts at several key points help to build tension and anticipation without going over the top. I really can’t say enough about Gilroy’s rookie effort?marvelous directing.
After Clooney’s performance and Gilroy’s direction, the best aspect of the movie is the supporting cast. Wilkinson especially got my attention for his role as a morally reformed angel of mercy and justice. His eerie portrayal of newly found clarity drives the film’s message of good guys prevailing.
Swinton also deserves mention for her role as the head legal counsel of an agricultural company knowingly selling poisonous products to hundreds of consumers. Hidden evil in its finest.
As I said before, the plot may be difficult to follow with all the turns and subtleties, and it takes a while to develop. An hour into the movie, I had no idea where it was going, but don’t be discouraged. If you hold out, you should be pleasantly surprised.
