The Adjustment Bureau is based on the short story The Adjustment Team by Philip K. Dick. Matt Damon plays David Norris, an ambitious New York politician who is running for the U.S. Senate when he meets Elise Sellas, a beautiful contemporary dancer. They first collide in a restroom before Norris gives a vital speech. They share a special moment before Sellas (played by Emily Blunt) is whisked out of his life. They meet a short while later on a New York City bus and their feelings are undeniable.
But The Adjustment Bureau, a group of people working hard to keep destiny on track, are aiming to keep Norris and Sellas apart for the greater good of the universe. It turns out Norris is destined to be an influential man in his later years if Sellas isn't in his life.
The Adjustment Bureau doesn't count on the depth of the feelings Norris and Sellas have for one another after just a few brief encounters. Will the Bureau be able to keep the lovers apart after another chance meeting brings them back together?
Matt Damon
Matt Damon is known for his action hero roles in movies like Green Zone, The Departed, and the Bourne trilogy. In this sci-fi romantic thriller, Damon is more than believable as a politician with emotional convictions and free will beyond what his political people tell him.
Even better than Damon's acting ability is the on-screen chemistry he has with his co-star, Emily Blunt. The two of them do a remarkable job of convincing viewers that their love for one another needs to take priority over every other aspect of their lives.
Emily Blunt
Emily Blunt shines as the only woman David Norris will ever love. When she looks at Norris like she wants to gobble him up, we are convinced that being with Norris is the only way she'll ever be happy. In every scene that Blunt shares the screen with Damon, she is a perfectly chosen acting partner, matching his ability, depth, and passion. I'd wager my next paycheque that Blunt has a very long and successful acting career in front of her.
Blunt plays a contemporary ballet dancer in this movie and she pulls the role off with ease. She either trained intensely for that aspect of her role as Elise Sellas or she has a background in dance. The scenes where she is rehearsing or is on stage are like watching art in motion.
Two Thumbs Up
I give this sci-fi romance two very enthusiastic thumbs up. If you love movies that make you think, this one is for you. You will leave the theatre questioning everything you believe about free will, love, and fate. Or perhaps you'll be inspired to buy a bowler hat...
Toby Welch - Toby is a full-time freelance writer who specializes in magazine articles, online writing, e-books, and manuscript editing.
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