Burn After Reading is the latest Coen brothers film, stars John Malkovich, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Tilda Swinton, Francis MacDormand and J.K. Simmons.
In a recent interview the brothers said they first came up with a list of actors they wanted to work with, then defined a character for each actor and finally wrote a story in which the characters would interact.
Seems like a weird way to approach a film but it works.
Much like Fargo, the story revolves around people in way over their heads and events spiral- almost at random- way out of control.
Malkovich gets the movies biggest laugh out loud line...
Spoiler: Show"Drinking problem? I have a drinking problem? You're a Mormon, compared to you EVERYBODY has a drinking problem!
...but everyone gets their moments.
J.K. Simmons has a small but crucial role- he basically represents the audience. Simmons has become a stellar supporting actor and his turn here- constant incredulous bemusement- is priceless.
Pitt plays against type and Clooney's "basement project" is hilarious.
Any Coen brothers film is worth a viewing...this one is no exception.
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