Michael Clayton is a 2007 American legal thriller film written and directed by Tony Gilroy in his directorial debut. It stars George Clooney as lawyer Michael Clayton, who discovers a coverup of criminal wrongdoing by one of his firm's clients. The film also features Tom Wilkinson, Tilda Swinton, and Sydney Pollack in supporting roles. Released in October 2007, it earned $93 million worldwide and received significant critical acclaim, earning seven Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, with Swinton winning Best Supporting Actress.