Review of Michael Clayton (2007) by Gregory G — 31 Jul 2010
An intelligent, compelling conspiracy thriller with a moral complexity that elevates it above a populist melodrama. George Clooney gives an understated performance - one of his best - as a corporate fixer assisting a Manhattan firm fighting a class action suit that is in jeopardy of being sabotaged by the lead attorney (Tom Wilkinson).
Written and directed by Tony Gilroy, the movie is confusing at first as information is detailed that doesn't make sense until later. As the plot unravels the level of corruption deepens leading to a climax that is a wonderful comeuppance.
An attempt to be a prestige picture in the manner of "The Verdict," this is traditional filmmaking that meanders at times into self-importance. Wilkinson is crazily funny as the holy fool lawyer suffering a crisis of conscience and a mental breakdown.
Tilda Swinton, who won an Oscar as Best Supporting Actress, is obsequiously composed as the unscrupulous legal counsel. With Sydney Pollack, Michael O'Keefe, Robert Prescott, Terry Serpico, Merritt Wever.
This review of Michael Clayton (2007) was written by Gregory G on 31 Jul 2010.
Michael Clayton has generally received positive reviews.
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