Burn After Reading (2008) Review in 2025
Burn After Reading is a dark comedy film that follows the story of a group of gym employees who stumble upon a CD containing classified government information, leading to a series of chaotic events.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for family viewing due to its mature themes, language, and some graphic content.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for fans of dark comedy and the Coen Brothers' unique style. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to its mature themes and content.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film's plot revolves around Osborne (John Malkovich), a former CIA analyst who is forced into retirement, and his wife, Katie (Tilda Swinton), who is a CIA analyst herself. When Osborne's personal trainer, Chad (Brad Pitt), finds a CD containing classified information, he and his coworkers, Linda (Frances McDormand) and Harry (George Clooney), try to sell it to the highest bidder, leading to a series of hilarious and intense situations.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a unique and darkly comedic tone. However, it can be confusing at times, and some plot twists feel forced.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with each actor delivering a standout performance. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and their interactions are often hilarious and memorable.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each actor bringing their unique energy to their role. However, some characters feel underutilized, and their motivations can be unclear.
direction9.00/10
The Coen Brothers' direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the characters and their motivations. The pacing is well-balanced, and the film's tone is consistently dark and comedic.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with a unique and stylized visual approach that complements the film's tone. However, some scenes feel overly reliant on quick cuts and shaky camera work.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's unique tone, engaging story, and superb acting make it a standout comedy. The Coen Brothers' direction is masterful, and the cinematography is excellent.
Cons
Some plot twists feel forced, and some characters feel underutilized. The film's pacing can be uneven at times, and some scenes feel overly reliant on quick cuts and shaky camera work.
Notable Quotes
"I'm a patriot, not a crook!"
"I'm not a crook!"
"You're not a crook, are you?"
