Henrick Vartanian
Reviewed by: Harrison Cheung — Word has it that the new reality-bending romantic-thriller, THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU, had to change its release date because its trailers bore a strong resemblance to INCEPTION.
What would you do if you were told you couldn’t fall in love with someone or else you’d risk your future and that of the world’s? That’s the question asked in this movie that deftly balances action with romance. Set in New York City, Damon stars as David Norris, a rising political star with eyes on a Senate seat and perhaps the presidency. Emily Blunt is the fated object of his desire; she plays Elise Sellas, a young British dancer who could be the most important choreographer of her generation.
However, David and Elise’s fledgling relationship doesn’t face hostile parents or disapproving friends. Instead, they are challenged by men in black, guys with suits and hats who work for “The Adjustment Bureau.” Whether these agents are angels or aliens, the movie doesn’t say, but they apparently have monitored humankind for centuries and help nudge key events to influence and safeguard the world’s destiny. And the Bureau throws every obstacle possible to keep David and Elise apart.
It’s heady stuff but Nolfi keeps the pace brisk, leaving little time for the audience to ponder or be puzzled. It’s also amazing that THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU’s relatively tiny budget of $50 million is just as thought-provoking and visually mind-warping as that of Christopher Nolan’s overrated and $160 million budgeted INCEPTION. THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU is a breezy dream, destiny or decision to watch.
The Adjustment Bureau official movie website: http://www.theadjustmentbureau.com/
More on The Adjustment Bureau on Brave New Hollywood: http://bravenewhollywood.com/djustments-to-their-lives-matt-damon-and-emily-blunt/