One of my favorite films of last year. One of Devin and Jeremy’s worst. You decide for yourself, because it’s being deservedly rereleased in theaters on the 25th of January. Seriously, see the movie. Tony Gilroy’s the real deal and I personally found it to be a very rewarding experience and a real showcase for George Clooney, Tilda Swinton, Tom Wilkinson, and Sydney Pollack. You really ought to make the trip next weekend.
Here’s my ‘Best Of’ snippet, for what it’s worth:
5. Michael Clayton (Devin’s Review) (Jeremy’s Review) (Buy the Script)
Charlie Wilson’s War, The Bourne Ultimatum and Michael Clayton
are the best mainstream films for adults of the year but this one just
had me riveted throughout its running time, and I’m truly surprised at
just how violently opposed CHUD.com’s reviewers were to it. As I sat
watching this, I couldn’t have been more into it, more in love with
George Clooney’s work in it, more riveted by Tony Gilroy’s way of
making a film. It’s not going to challenge the idea of what makes for a
good thriller, nor will it have the audience pumping their fists as the
climax seems to wish, but it’s a really strong movie and one I look
forward to revisiting many times on DVD. I have nothing but love for
this one, and it’s definitely a "feel" film. I just felt it and in a
strong way.
Current Rating: 9.0 out of 10
Contributing
Factors: A great sense of mood and tone. Wonderful acting from everyone. Extremely engaging and entertaining material.
Performance to
Savor: George Clooney is nails but Tom Wilkinson is a force of nature here.
P.R. CHUD.com
Pull-Quote: "This is how mainstream films should be."