Do we live our lives as the result of our decisions based from our own free will, or are we merely moving through the motions of some grand, master plan pre-determined by an unseen, unknown higher power? That is the question central to the plot of this film. "The Adjustment Bureau" stars Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Terrence Stamp, and a host of other talented character actors. The film is an interesting blend of psychological thriller and romance. I've seen it listed as a science fiction piece. This is incorrect and misleading.
This film explores these questions through the lives of the main character, a young up and coming politician, David Norris (Damon) and a dancer, Elise Sellas (Blunt) he repeatedly encounters through chance meetings. At every encounter they feel drawn to each other, perfectly connected, as if they were meeting their soulmate for the first time. For reasons we learn about as the film progresses, this is of great concern to the men known as "The Adjustment Bureau" - a group of mysterious men charged with the duty of making sure everything goes according to plan.
Who's plan? The answer to that is one of the strengths of the film. While never seen, nor directly referred to by any one name (other than "The Chairman"), it is obvious this film is tackling age old questions of faith - from any denomination. It is also interesting that while these men are an obvious obstacle that Damon and Blunt must overcome, they are not necessarily the "bad guy". Really, as revealed in a great monologue moment by one of the leaders of the Bureau, "Thompson" (Terrence Stamp), if there is a villain in this film it is man himself. He offers a historical answer to Norris' question of free will that leaves you wondering whether or not free will is such a great thing for mankind.
Overall, the film works well on many different levels. It works well as a psychological thriller, a romance, and in several moments - both. Matt Damon and Emily Blunt turn in quality performances. Terrence Stamp is amazing. This film is also a fine example of how often times the most well told stories are from people who fill both jobs of writer, and director. This is the case for this film. Although better known for his screenwriting credits (Oceans 12, The Bourne Ultimatum, The Sentinel), this film marks the beginning of another chapter in George Nolfi's career - as director.
This is an entertaining film - definitely great for a date movie. He gets the action, thrills and Emily Blunt. She gets the romance, the intrigue, and Matt Damon. Audiences everywhere get a great moviegoing experience that in many ways feels like a good old fashioned Hitchcock thriller.
* * * * 4 Star Film (out of possible four)
John M. Dunlap
The Hollywood Outsiders
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