by Brad Pitt has graced us with his talent in a multitude of movies over the years, from action-packed blockbusters to intense dramas. However, when it comes to comedy, the Hollywood heartthrob has certainly had his moments of hilarity on the silver screen. In a 2019 interview with Vanity Fair, Pitt made a surprising revelation about the funniest movie he ever made – “Burn After Reading.” Let’s dive deep into why this 2008 black comedy directed by the legendary Coen brothers captured his heart and humor.
The Coen Brothers’ Genius
First and foremost, it’s essential to acknowledge the genius of Joel and Ethan Coen, the minds behind “Burn After Reading.” The Coen brothers are known for their unique storytelling style, blending dark humor with intricate plots and quirky characters. Throughout their careers, they have given us cinematic gems such as “Fargo,” “The Big Lebowski,” and “No Country for Old Men.”
When Brad Pitt described “Burn After Reading” as one of their best films, he was not exaggerating. The Coen brothers’ trademark wit and offbeat storytelling shine through every scene of this movie. The film’s absurdity and cleverness combine to create a comedic masterpiece that had audiences and critics laughing out loud.
Brad Pitt’s Hilarious Role
In “Burn After Reading,” Brad Pitt takes on the role of Chad Feldheimer, a dim-witted CIA analyst who stumbles upon a disc containing classified information. His performance as the bumbling and clueless Chad is nothing short of comedic brilliance. Pitt’s impeccable timing and physical humor make Chad a memorable character that leaves us in stitches.
What makes Pitt’s portrayal of Chad so side-splittingly funny is his complete lack of self-awareness. He brings Chad to life with an innocence and naivety that contrasts sharply with the high-stakes world of espionage. Whether he’s engaging in a hilariously inept attempt to blackmail the CIA or trying to decipher the contents of the mysterious disc, Pitt’s Chad delivers laughs aplenty.
The Outlandish Plot
“Burn After Reading” boasts a plot that is as ludicrous as it is captivating. The story revolves around the mishaps that occur after Chad and his co-worker, Linda Litzke (played by the talented Frances McDormand), find the classified disc and decide to cash in on their discovery. Little do they know that the disc contains sensitive information belonging to a disgruntled former CIA analyst, Osborne Cox (played by John Malkovich).
As the plot unfolds, chaos ensues as the characters’ lives become increasingly intertwined. CIA operatives played by George Clooney and Tilda Swinton are thrown into the mix, creating a comedic web of confusion, deception, and espionage.
The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to take an absurd premise and turn it into a riveting and uproarious narrative. The Coen brothers’ mastery of storytelling allows them to seamlessly weave together disparate threads, creating a movie that keeps the audience guessing while laughing out loud.
The All-Star Cast
“Burn After Reading” boasts an ensemble cast that is nothing short of spectacular. In addition to Brad Pitt’s standout performance as Chad Feldheimer, the film features Frances McDormand, John Malkovich, George Clooney, and Tilda Swinton, each contributing their unique comedic prowess to the mix.
Frances McDormand’s portrayal of Linda Litzke, the fitness center employee with dreams of cosmetic surgery, is both comical and endearing. Her partnership with Pitt’s Chad leads to some of the film’s most memorable and absurd moments.
John Malkovich plays the irritable and disgruntled Osborne Cox to perfection. His expletive-laden rants and exasperation at the unfolding chaos provide a continuous source of amusement.
George Clooney, known for his suave and charming roles, takes on a character with a twist in “Burn After Reading.” His portrayal of Harry Pfarrer, a U.S. Marshal with a penchant for casual affairs, adds another layer of comedic complexity to the story.
Tilda Swinton rounds out the cast as Katie Cox, Osborne’s icy and manipulative wife. Her interactions with Clooney’s character and her own secret agendas add further layers to the film’s intricate web of comedy.
The chemistry among this ensemble cast is palpable, and their interactions elevate the humor to new heights. Watching these seasoned actors play off each other is a true delight for fans of witty and unconventional comedies.
Critical and Commercial Success
“Burn After Reading” was not only a hit with audiences but also garnered critical acclaim. The film’s unique blend of dark humor, absurdity, and espionage elements struck a chord with both critics and viewers.
At the box office, the film performed admirably, grossing over $163 million worldwide. Its success was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Coen brothers’ brand of humor and their ability to create films that resonate with a wide audience.
Critics praised “Burn After Reading” for its sharp wit, biting satire, and clever dialogue – all trademarks of the Coen brothers’ filmmaking style. Brad Pitt’s performance as Chad Feldheimer received particular acclaim, with many lauding his ability to showcase his comedic talents in a role that was a departure from his usual fare.
Other Funny Brad Pitt Movies
While “Burn After Reading” may have secured its place as Brad Pitt’s funniest movie in his own opinion, it’s worth noting that the actor has had other notable comedic roles throughout his career. Here are a few of them:
- Inglourious Basterds (2009): In Quentin Tarantino’s World War II epic, Pitt plays the role of Lieutenant Aldo Raine, the leader of a group of Jewish-American soldiers on a mission to hunt down Nazis. His exaggerated Southern accent and over-the-top performance add a comedic touch to the film’s intense proceedings.
- Snatch (2000): In this British crime comedy, Pitt plays Mickey O’Neil, an Irish Traveller who becomes entangled in the world of illegal boxing and diamond heists. Pitt’s portrayal of Mickey’s quirky character, complete with a nearly incomprehensible accent, is both hilarious and memorable.
- Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005): This action-comedy film sees Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie playing a married couple who are secretly spies working for different agencies. The film’s humor arises from the couple’s attempts to balance their married life with their high-stakes espionage careers.
- Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood (2019): While primarily a drama, Quentin Tarantino’s ode to 1960s Hollywood features moments of dark humor, with Pitt playing Cliff Booth, a stuntman and loyal friend to Leonardo DiCaprio’s character. His laid-back and effortlessly cool portrayal provides some comic relief in the film.
- Happy Feet Two (2011): In this animated sequel, Brad Pitt lends his voice to the character of Will the Krill, a tiny and adventurous krill who embarks on a quest for self-discovery. While not a live-action role, Pitt’s voice acting skills shine through in this family-friendly comedy.
- War Machine (2017): In this satirical war comedy-drama, Pitt plays General Glen McMahon, a fictionalized version of General Stanley McChrystal. The film uses humor to critique the complexities of modern warfare and the absurdities of bureaucracy.
Ultimately, the funniest Brad Pitt movie is a matter of personal opinion. Pitt’s versatility as an actor allows him to seamlessly transition between genres, delivering laughter in comedies and leaving a lasting impact in dramas and action films.
Conclusion
In the world of comedy, “Burn After Reading” stands out as a true gem in Brad Pitt’s illustrious career. With its witty dialogue, eccentric characters, and cleverly crafted plot, the film showcases the actor’s comedic chops in a way that delighted audiences and critics alike.
The combination of Brad Pitt’s hilarious portrayal of the dim-witted Chad Feldheimer, the Coen brothers’ unmatched storytelling prowess, and an ensemble cast firing on all cylinders makes “Burn After Reading” a must-watch for anyone seeking a good laugh.
While other Brad Pitt films have delivered their fair share of humor, “Burn After Reading” remains a standout choice for the actor’s funniest movie. Whether you’re a fan of Pitt, the Coen brothers, or simply appreciate a good laugh, this film is sure to leave you in stitches and reaffirm the enduring appeal of a well-executed black comedy. So, why wait? Grab some popcorn, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and prepare for a hilarious cinematic experience with Brad Pitt in “Burn After Reading.”
