I read a review two weeks ago of this film after viewing it by a critic from The Age and he stated that after the success of No Country For Old Men (2007), the Coen brothers had two options:(1) try and outdo themselves with a bigger and better movie or (2) go completly left of centre and produce and try something which they have yet to achieve, of which they chose the latter. Burn is a different film from what the Coens usually produce however it still has the underlying dark tone but this time with a cast of colorful and comedic characters. The story which begins with CIA analyst Osbourne Cox (John Malcovich) quits his job after getting a tongue lashing from his boss regarding his drinking issues. Cox endeavors to get even by writing a memoir revealing secrets of the agency which is against the wishes of his wife, recent Academy Award winner Tilda Swinton (Michael Clayton). She in turn is having an affair with womanizer Harry Pfarrer (George Clooney). Enter gym instructors Chad Feldheimer (Brad Pitt) and Linda Litzke (Francis McDormand) who stumble across Cox's memoir and attempt to blackmail him which turns everyone's life inside out with serious although hilaious consequences. Harry's womanising see him end up with Litzke which begins a fateful link between him and all parties invloved. Burn after Reading has a superb lineup of in my opinion 5 of the worlds best actor's which also has support performances by Richard Jenkins (Six Feet Under) and J.K Simmons (The Lady Killers, OZ) who add to the films success. I must warn that Burn after Reading is not for all and I cam imagine that some will not appreciate the dark and quirky theme throughout. I would recommend all Coen fans to see this film. Critics, you may Burn after Reading this but dont burn so quickly after watching this film.
Magic Rating: 7.1/10
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