Charisma goes a long way if you’re playing a man who fires people for a living. At least that’s what Director Jason Reitman says.

That’s why he chose George Clooney for the lead role in Up in the Air. Reitman knew Clooney could make his character, Ryan Bingham, likable despite his heartless job. (Click on the media bar to hear Jason Reitman)

It worked out well for Clooney and Reitman, who have both received nominations for Best Actor and Best Director from multiple critics groups.

Up in the Air is currently in theaters.