Burn After Reading

The much anticipated follow up to the best film of 2007 by two of the most creatively innovative filmmakers of our time takes the form of a silly spy comedy, but it works. Star power and Coen movie regulars carry witty dialogue and character development despite the lack of a compelling story. There are clearly trademark Coen comedy staples, such as the long loud wingtip-clacking walk down a government agency hallway. There is something about the camera behind the shoes angle that never gets old to me. There is also the slightly morbid twist of gratuitous violence that shakes up the comedic vibe, something that has turned off many other critics, but which works just fine with this film.

George Clooney headlines as a sex-addicted Treasury Department agent (although the Marshals fall under the Justice Department, but that's a technicality). He finds himself involved in a tangled web of players ranging from CIA spooks to a trio of "Hardbodies" gym employees, to Russian emissaries when a classified file is discovered and used as an instrument of blackmail. The character is a bit of a schmuck, but played well by Clooney who has a wonderful comedic presence and was probably in his element filming this role.

Brad Pitt (who I honestly believe is a great actor) is the likable but not-so-bright gym employee who orchestrates the debacle with the secret disk. His performance is a far cry from the cool Tyler Durden or Detective Mills of the 90's, he exudes self-effacing confidence and is hilarious in the process.

John Malkovich (excellent performance), Frances McDormand and Tilda Swinton round out the A-list cast, but it is JK Simmons, David Rasche and Richard Jenkins that give the film its Coen brothers feel. The dialogue between Simmons and Rasche is worth the price of admission alone, and their final conversation left me laughing out loud.

Cleverly written, well acted all around, and worth checking out to any fan of the Coens, Pitt, Clooney, or Malkovich. It does not have the serious feel of Fargo or No Country, but the premise of the film is intriguing enough, and the closure is exceptional. I felt that the pace was slowing near the middle, and there were probably some unnecessary scenes, but as it comes to a close, every loose end is tied up and it is done quickly and with hilarity. JK Simmons has to be one of the funniest straight-faced actors around, and he was given some great lines.

Overall, a thoroughly entertaining movie, but perhaps a slight disappointment considering the talent involved. 7/10.