Michael Clayton

PREMIER MOVIE REVIEWS - Michael Clayton (2007)

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Michael Clayton (2007)

Genre: Thriller/Drama

Director: Tony Gilroy

Certificate: Michael Clayton was rated 15A by the Irish Film Censor's Office (www.ifco.ie) i.e. suitable for those of 15 years of age and over. Those under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Violence = moderate. Drugs = mild. Sex/Nudity = moderate. Language = strong.

Plot Summary & Review

Michael Clayton (George Clooney) works for a large American corporate law firm where he has become the firm's "fixer". Whenever a case goes wrong or things gets awkward Michael Clayton is sent out to sort things out - so when a colleague (Tom Wilkinson) starts to act very strangely Clayton is despatched to smooth things out. His assignment is made more difficult by the fact that his colleague has been working on a huge case for the last 8 years and there is vast amounts of money at stake...

George Clooney Photo
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The film has been described as a "slow burner" and this is not an unfair description although it has to be said that it still managed to hold my interest even if it could never be described as a "roller coaster" ride of excitement. It is a serious film with a good story that unfolds slowly but remains credible.

Another great plus for this film is the credible characters, and as with all plausible characters they are not without their flaws. Michael Clayton is cynical, jaded by his work and personal life he comes across somewhat sad and empty. If that wasn't bad enough he has a gambling problem and a big debt outstanding.

George Clooney plays the weary character really well. I don't think he smiles once in the film! It is as if Michael Clayton exists but doesn't live.

Tom Wilkinson also gives a great performance as the lawyer who after 8 years working on a case has a change of heart when his conscience starts brothering him and he wants to help those who are trying to sue his clients. His character is important not only for the story but because it is this change of heart that introduces ideas like; doing the right thing, honesty and other values.

Lasting Thought: There should be more to life than making money.

Bottom Line: Slow at times but a good story and "real" characters make it worthwhile.

Reviewed by Niall Quinn, Premier Movie Reviews 2007

Main Cast

George Clooney

Tom Wilkinson

Tilda Swinton

Sydney Pollack

Michael O'Keefe

RATING