"Michael Clayton" (2007) Directed by Tony Gilroy

“I’m not a miracle worker. I’m a janitor”.

From a blank opening screen and simple "Michael Clayton" we merge into slow cuts of an empty office complex late at night, with only occasional floors lit and occupied by cleaning staff. In the background is a panicky narration describing a long career, for one law firm, and how a recent re-birth had changed him after “being coated in a patina of shit for the best part of my life”. Containing three of my favourite actors, it’s quickly become a personal favourite film. So, starting with the star of the show:

“Michael Clayton” (George Clooney) His first appearance comes after a long, moving camera shot (becoming a camera theme for the film) as it pans around a poker table. A “fixer” or Janitor of problems, he appears as per the picture below, assured and in control, a methodical professional. His persona is subtly different away from his profession and sometimes brilliantly underplayed by Clooney. A back story of brotherly debts and a love for his son “Henry” (an excellent Austin Williams) but extended close up’s and long lingering shots on Clooney steal the film.

A brilliant assured performance.

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The above paragraphs are taken from my original spoiler free review of "Michael Clayton" penned and published over a decade ago, transferred to my Medium blog site on 14th December 2022 and which can be read in full and for free via my Substack blog site and original article linked immediately below:

https://ramblingmusings666.substack.com/p/michael-clayton-2007-f0c0c99a8b31

This spoiler free review is also integral to volume 3 of my 7 volume series of "essential film reviews collection". Currently only available in e-book form, each substantial volume of numerous film reviews are priced at £4.99 per volume, however should you have an Amazon Kindle "Unlimited" package you can read each and every volume for free:

Volume 3

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C4JTLRY1

All 7 Volumes

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C4HZSTTH?binding=kindle_edition&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tukn

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