I really like the idea behind this film. It has drawn
comparisons to Inception in that it
is a smart, sci-fi blockbuster and I can see why but this is a completely
different film. The design of the Bureau and its operatives is wonderfully
period. The Bureau look as though they’ve just got off a bus from 1963 and this
is heightened by the inclusion of John Slattery looking like he’s come straight
from the set of Mad Men. The reason for the look is explained and makes sense. The Bureau’s
offices are intimidating yet sterile and feel as though they are untouched
despite being full of people. New
York looks, as always, picturesque and a lot of the
city is seen throughout the film.
Matt Damon does a fantastic job portraying David Norris.
Despite his age he has the look of a politician and the script helps him to
beef out his character’s political credentials. When things start getting a bit
strange he shows no fear but rather an understanding of what he must do and a
determination to get it done. Emily Blunt is very much a secondary character but
is light and quirky. Her and Damon’s relationship feels realistic and this
helps to drive the romantic element of the film. The Bureau is filled with
stern and intimidating types and all are fine. Anthony Mackie brings a human
edge to the Bureau in his portrayal of Harry, the Agent who helps Norris.
The film is not without its problems. The Bureau is
investing so much time and resources in Norris because he is destined for great
things but with all the hassle he is giving them and with three hundred or so
other American’s to choose from I’d have thought they might have cut their
losses with him. The themes of religion and free will were interesting but I’d
like to have seen the film makers explore them a bit further. It felt as though
we only touched the subject rather than delved into it. Unlike Inception, The Adjustment Bureau isn’t the
sort of film that will have people thinking or discussing much afterwards. The
film is quite neat at tying up any loose ends and there is only really one area
which could be open to interpretation. Despite the odd flaw, the film remains
very good. It is nice to see a romantic story that doesn’t just appeal to women
and a sci-fi film that doesn’t just appeal to men. The film is definitely worth
watching.
7/10