Duplicity

There are undertones of Michael Clayton all throughout Duplicity, which is not surprising considering Tony Gilroy wrote and directed both films. But unlike Michael Clayton (a superb film), Duplicity focuses more on humor and the fun of a twisting, turning story. Duplicity is a spy flick, with all the usual backstabbing and plotting and intelligence/counterintelligence that spy flicks are known for, but the playing with conventions, and focusing on the charisma of the two leads, is what made Duplicity a thoroughly entertaining movie. Clive Owen and Julia Roberts, teamed together in a relationship nearly as rocky as their relationship in Closer, both seem to enjoy what their doing, and give the audience a couple to root for, even if we are unsure of their loyalties to... well, anyone. I was reminded at times of Burn After Reading, which involved a convoluted and twisting storyline, but was really all one big joke. Duplicity is equally confusing, and the twist at the end is a fresh one for a spy film, but the story is about more than the turns it took to reach it. Gilroy has a knack for beautiful camera work and directing, and while his script gives us nothing new, it presents an interesting enough spin to keep you watching and wanting more.

Genre - Comedy (3.5)

Screenplay (3)
Acting (3)
Production (4)
Directing (4)