When a disc containing memoirs of a former CIA analyst falls into the hands of gym employees, Linda and Chad, they see a chance to make enough money for Linda to have life-changing cosmetic surgery. Predictably, events whirl out of control for the duo, and those in their orbit.
Nominated for 3 BAFTA Film 8 wins & 32 nominations total
Top Critics Reviews
rotten:
On screen, delusional schmoes are more fun than smart people, and in the latest film from Joel and Ethan Coen, the imperious former spook played by John Malkovich accuses his blackmailers...of heading a league of morons.
– Michael Phillips,
Chicago Tribune,
12 Sep 2008
fresh:
For fans of the Coens... it suggests, especially on the heels of No Country for Old Men, that they have rediscovered their cinematic vision after several lean years.
– Christopher Orr,
The New Republic,
16 Sep 2008
fresh:
The Coens are loopy stylists, and it's often amusing to watch this comedy of errors unfold. But after a masterpiece like No Country for Old Men, Burn After Reading is classified as disposable.
– Joe Williams,
St. Louis Post-Dispatch,
18 Oct 2008
fresh:
, Frances McDormand might get nominated for an Academy Award in a supporting role. She was great.
– Ben Lyons,
At the Movies,
7 Nov 2008
fresh:
These are functioning morons, they walk and work among us. And they are brilliant and funny and in spite of the screwball-comedy nature of the story, they are completely believable.