MICHAEL CLAYTON

MICHAEL CLAYTON is a terrific movie. Its not often enough we're treated to an edge of your seat thriller that doesn't rely on explosions and car chases for its thrills. MICHAEL CLAYTON is the first film directed by Tony Gilroy who is best known for his work writing the Bourne films. Mr. Gilroy delivers his best script yet and one of the year's best. In addition, he gets sensational performances from George Clooney, Tilda Swinton, and especially Tom Wilkinson who is a leading candidate for Best Supporting Actor for his work here. While not in the class of the very best corporate/political thrillers (i.e. THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE, ALL THE PRESIDENTS MEN, and more recently THE INSIDER) this is smart, well written, well acted, and fun to watch. 4.5 of 5 hs