Category Archive for ‘Film Critic’ at

As you know I watch A LOT of films. And for the most part anytime Beckinsale, Pitt or Depp are in a feature I’ll be watching it opening weekend. So naturally, I went last night to check out Burn After Reading. Staring Clooney, Malkovich, McDormand, Pitt and a slew of other known acts. I was very entertained throughout. It is a very dry comedy with a dark side. And contains plenty of out loud laughter that is, for the most part, based around the stupidity of the self-absorbed characters on the screen. The quirks and ticks woven into each character were pulled off very well by the star saturated cast.

The cool Brad Pitt plays an idiot who attempts to be slick when dealing with the former CIA desk jockey played by John Malkovich, who you learn early on has the capability to drop 60 f-bombs without blinking. George Clooney plays an over the top former Marshall who has an obvious addiction, and it isn’t jogging. As the very thin web of blackmail is woven you discover that every one is sleeping with everyone else (What’s new in Hollywood…) and what you thought might be something of importance spins into nothing. Which is a funny take on how idiotic people can be these days. The approach taken by the CIA in sweeping it all under the rug to close the film out was very humorous; as well as the Russians pointless involvement.

As a whole it was a bizarre script with no true depth and meaning. One would have to make something up to get anything other than a couple hours of entertainment out of this one. It is a Cohen Brothers film so most who aren’t familiar with their quirky stylings will likely walk away confused and feeling duped. This film is rated R for good reason - with a few heads exploding, a plethora of swearing, and crude attempts at humor. So on my scale of 1 to 5, Burn After Reading grabs a 3. Based mostly on the entertainment factor and the quality of the acting. There is nothing spectacular about the film and it doesn’t merit any ‘hype’ other than the fact that Pitt is on the screen again. Should you see it? Well, that’s up to you of course. :)

(Sidenote: ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ staring Pitt releases Christmas Day 2008.)

I grabbed this film for the comedic approach on a real issue. Tonight I watched it straight through without distractions, then let it roll again while I worked on a project. This documentary is, in a sense, more about the on-camera director (Morgan Spurlock) and his intake of the middle east, than the problem solving of the war on terror, oil and the struggle between Israel and Palestine. However, I think this film is great for the average selfish American. The film tips it’s hat subtly towards awareness. Which is exactly what this country needs more of. It is factual that not all, nor even a third, of the middle east is “out to get us.” Morgan does a beautiful job shedding the light on a culture that does care about their families and peace. Throughout the film he sought out very interesting people of all backgrounds to interview, often speaking with an infectious honesty. You will find yourself mustering a hefty chuckle as he springs this question on random citizens passing by, “Where is Osama Bin Laden?” One fellow responded with, “Where is your car?” Morgan’s off the cuff reply was, “Why, do you want to blow it up?” His quick wit makes this film fun, all the while keeping the serious issues at hand. Do take the time to watch the alternate ending along with a short feature titled Three Girls Saudi. The animation included is very well done, complete with a smart play on modern video games and Osama dancing to Hammers “Can’t Touch This.” You will walk away with a broader world view than what your evil television is teaching you through the “news.”

In my ranking of 1 - 5, I give this film a 3.5

Check the trailer, then go rent it!