Liam Madden’s Film Review: Michael Clayton

Liam delivers his next review of DVDs available from Island Libraries – rental just 98p per night. Ed

Liam Madden's Film Review: Michael ClaytonIt is rare that an American movie reveals its power through the use of subtleness. This is definitely the case with the release of Michael Clayton. A sophisticated film that demands a more concentrated focus from the viewer than most American movies.

Such a story could have been tedious to watch if it was not for such a strong cast. George Clooney is highly believable in the lead role as his character portrays a man who has only his ingenuity and experience to fall back on when the law firm he operates in has to deal with espionage.

From the very start of the film, the viewer has to pay attention and the attention payed is a real benefit later in the story.

Tony Gilroy is the writer and director of the fascinating films The Bourne Trilogy and this seems to be at first glance, another well-paced thriller.

However, the development of the film is understated and not as action-packed. It is a gradual building of a situation that one hopes will finally get to an ingenious synthesis.

Michael Clayton is possibly one of the more thoughtful films to have been produced and released on Dvd in the last few years. That written, Tony Gilroy’s direction is cool and dependable and I personally look forward to any future projects.

See Liam’s other film reviews