Michael Clayton - 2007

Samuels Media, Castle Rock Entertainment, Mirage Films

Written and Directed by Tony Gilroy

Cast:

• Micheal Clayton – George Clooney
• Arthur Edens – Tom Wilkinson
• Marty Bach – Sydney Pollack
• Barry Grissom – Micheal O'Keefe
• Karen Crowder – Tilda Swinton
• Gene Clayton – Sean Cullen

Story: Behind the scenes, Micheal Clayton is damage control for a large, prestigious law firm. He is the “fixer”, the guy they send to clean up a mess when their clients screw up. Only this time, it isn't a client. Arthur Edens is one of the top attorneys of the firm, and he suddenly goes nuts in a deposition, tearing off his clothes and proclaiming his love for one of the plaintiff's, a young girl from an upstate claim against a corporation for violating pollution laws and causing cancer through their negligence. Years of suppressing documents and winning for the sake of winning have taken their toll on Arthur, and he is about to release damning evidence against his own client. Clayton has his own problems as well, and his entire life is hanging on the edge. He is the man balancing six plates on the ends of brooms in the sideshow, and he is about to lose control of them all. He is trying to keep Arthur under control when Arthur suddenly dies of a heart attack...or was it? The world of corporate dealings, legal footwork, and back room deals is explored and revealed in this fascinating film.

Review: What makes this film so interesting is that it hits so close to the mark. You go out wondering if you should check your portfolio to see if you own shares of Unorth. Clooney, Wilkinson, Swinton, O'Keefe, and Pollack are the perfect people to play the roles, and the way the film begins is an exceptional tool to keep you nailed to the drama. There is an economy of scenes, nothing wasted, nothing there that should not be, and the suspense builds as surprisingly as a symphony by Brahms or Mozart. Granted, a writer should be able to direct his own story, but Gilroy displays an amazing lack of dictatorial persuasion and the actors become the roles. You leave with a satisfaction and a promise that all has been set right, and Michael Clayton will live to fight another day. Definitely not for the children, too much harsh language. If you are a fan of legal drama and suspense, this one belongs in your collection.