Review - The Adjustment Bureau

A Couple Adjustments Short

David Norris (Matt Damon) is on a beeline to the top. He has seen a political career that has grown by leaps and bounds. From a young congressman he has decided to take on the US Senate and it looks as if nothing will keep him from that goal. His main competitor to the challenge just might be himself.

When a devastating story is released, he sees an almost insurmountable lead in the polls disappear and his dreams are cut short. But it’s the meeting with the lovely Elise (Emily Blunt) that changes him. In a men’s room, trying to compose himself after a rare defeat, Elise sets him on the right path. Her frank comments encourage his frank comments. He is now a refreshed politician that just might make a comeback, someday. But for now, all David can think of is the woman that changed his perspective. Where is Elise?

But how is it that Elise and David got together? Was it part of a plan that was predestined? Were they together simply by chance? Or were there some individuals that helped to nudge them in the correct direction to make sure they stayed on their path.

Is there a plan for David? And is there free will? Questions that have baffled individuals for years are examined in this sci-fi thriller. Who is the adjustment bureau and what are they up to?

I really am starting to dig Matt Damon as an actor more and more. Every time out he seems to create an interesting character that fits the film. That is absolutely true with this film as he is perfectly cast as the up and coming politician who could one day take the next step. Emily Blunt works well with Damon and the two do a nice job of carrying through despite some rough patches.

Anthony Mackie feels underutilized. It was the one character that seemed to have more existing, but remained unexplained.

There are some light, fun moments that break up the action and it is, perhaps, those moments the make the film feel right. Now if this didn’t make us believe too many weird occurrences too often, it really would have been a great film. Should I be surprised though, that a film about adjustments could have used an adjustment or two?

B-

The Adjustment Bureau
Universal Pictures

Director: George Nolfi
Cast: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Anthony Mackie

Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 105 minutes.