Burn After Reading is a 2008 film written and directed by the Coen Brothers, Joel and Ethan Coen. The film's plot is a dark comedy that revolves around a series of chaotic events triggered by a CD containing confidential information that ends up in the hands of eccentric characters.

Plot

The story begins with a CIA analyst, Osbourne Cox (played by John Malkovich), who is fired from his job. Angry, Cox decides to write his memoirs, but when his manuscript accidentally circulates, it sets off a series of bizarre events.

A fitness center employee, Chad Feldheimer (played by Brad Pitt), and his coworker Linda Litzke (played by Frances McDormand) find the CD containing Cox's manuscript at their fitness center and believe they have a treasure on their hands. They attempt to blackmail Cox for money to fund some plastic surgery operations that Linda desperately needs.

Meanwhile, Harry Pfarrer (played by George Clooney), a casual federal agent involved in an affair with Linda, also becomes entangled in the situation, and his life becomes equally chaotic.

The film is a dark comedy that explores the chaos that ensues from misunderstandings, lies, and deceptions. The plot is characterized by a series of unpredictable events and eccentric characters.

Directors: Joel and Ethan Coen

Writers: Joel and Ethan Coen

Producers: Joel and Ethan Coen

Music: Carter Burwell

Main Cast:

George Clooney as Harry Pfarrer

Frances McDormand as Linda Litzke

Brad Pitt as Chad Feldheimer

John Malkovich as Osborne Cox

Tilda Swinton as Katie Cox

Richard Jenkins as Ted Treffon

Major Awards:

The film received generally positive reviews from critics but did not win major Oscars or Golden Globe awards.

Box Office Gross: The film grossed approximately $163 million worldwide.

Critical Reception: Burn After Reading received generally positive reviews from critics. Its dark humor and outstanding cast were widely praised. George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Brad Pitt, and John Malkovich received acclaim for their comedic performances. The film was seen as a satire of the world of espionage and paranoia, with the Coen Brothers' signature ironic style. However, some critics found the plot to be complex and somewhat chaotic. Overall, the film was considered an entertaining and well-executed dark comedy.

Trailer