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Burn After Reading Review

25 October 2008 Written by Caroline Elvin 1,012 views No Comment

burn-after-reading.jpgThe Coen brothers – Joel and Ethan are known for making classics, such as ‘No Country for Old Men’ and ‘Fargo’ and although this film is of an acceptable effort, it has some funny jokes and has big stars such as George Clooney and Brad Pitt staring in it – I cannot imagine it will be up for any awards any time soon.

The plot is very basic – two gormless gym instructors (Brad Pitt and Frances McDormand) come across some ex CIA memoirs, after this event takes place, many quite predictable moments occur and an inevitable ending takes place.

This film seems so far from the excellence of the Coen brothers usual films, although there is still some madcap genius within it, the characters represent very individual emotions – such as having a self-centered behaviour, this has been done consciously so that the audience feel they can relate to the characters. In that respect it can be argued that Joel and Ethan Coen have not lost their touch.

However, in every other respect, I think it is quite safe to say they have. The jokes that are produced throughout the film could definitely be worse, and there are many points when the whole audience was laughing – young and older generations alike. But, the plotline is so knowingly obvious, it ruins the film, a twist or some kind of hidden meaning would have made this a lot better.

All ages would enjoy this film, and it is not for a particular gender. However, if you enjoyed all of the Coen brother’s previous films, you will not find this one even slightly similar!

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