'' Burn After Reading '' is a 2008 black comedy film written , produced , edited , and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen . The film stars George Clooney , Frances McDormand , John Malkovich , Tilda Swinton , Richard Jenkins , and Brad Pitt . The film had its premiere on August 27 , 2008 , opening at the 2008 Venice Film Festival . It was released in the United States on September 12 , 2008 , and in the United Kingdom on October 17 , 2008
2008 Venice Film Festival
65th Venice International Film Festival
Burn After Reading