--> Navigation <--

--> Blu-Ray Specs <--



--> February 13, 2008 Blu-Ray Review: 'Michael Clayton (2007)' by Steven Wilson <--

'Michael Clayton (2007): Blu-Ray'
Film Value 7/10
Video Quality 8/10
Audio Quality 7/10
Extra Content 2/10
Grain Level (0=None) 3/10
Overall Value 7/10

IMDB Link:Michael Clayton (2007)
Amazon Link:Michael Clayton [Blu-ray] Michael Clayton (Widescreen Edition)





--> The Movie

The Good:
 Under the direction of Tony Gilroy, 'Michael Clayton' is a moderately paced thriller about a bipolar lawyer who wants to expose the truth behind the mysterious deaths of hundreds of people. With suspicions that the deaths were caused by his own company's actions, this lawyer is split between uncovering the truth or continuing to cover the lies. George Clooney plays the 'go to' guy for the same company and is tasked with cleaning up the whole mess. Clooney gives an excellent performance as well as the entire cast. With an original script that is both entertaining and creative, 'Michael Clayton' is an excellent film.

The Bad:
 Not much to fault in this film though some will find it moves at too slow a pace for their liking. Also, there are many parts in the movie where Tilda Swinton's character is shown practicing her interview speeches repetitively. These parts do not seem to elaborate at all on anything useful to the story. Their inclusion is somewhat baffling.

--> Video Quality

 Warner Brothers presents 'Michael Clayton' on Blu-ray Disc with a proper 1080p VC-1 encode. The film appears to be 99% free of defects. In some spots I noticed some very minor 'white specks' on the source which appear most evident in darker regions. Grain is kept to a minimum but is still more evident than some of the newest releases available today. In no way is the grain ever distracting nor does is deplete any detail in the movie. This film uses many shots of glossy cars and windows where reflections appear strikingly sharp and elegant. Overall, 'Michael Clayton' has a great picture quality worth owning.

--> Audio Quality

 Although you will not find any lossless audio tracks on this disc (which is a tad disappointing), the standard Dolby Digital 5.1 surround track does a fine job of producing a great range of sound. Explosions, dialogue, and other effects sound great.

--> Extra Content

 Very slim on bonus content, 'Michael Clayton' includes an audio commentary track with director Tony Gilroy. Also included is about 5 minutes of additional scenes in standard definition.

--> Summation

 While 'Michael Clayton' has been nominated for 7 Oscars, I don't feel that this film deserves the win for Best Picture. The film is highly entertaining and should have a good replay value. We'll see on February 24 what Oscars 'Michael Clayton' can bring home. Until then, sit back and enjoy this fine film.

-- Steven Wilson

--> Blu-ray Box Sets at Amazon.com <--



--> Advertisements <--