The Adjustment Bureau Review

I like to think that the medium of film serves many functions. It can entertain, inform, and transport a viewer like few of the creative arts. George Nolfi's The Adjustment Bureau serves as a reminder that movies don't always have to be dark and ominous in order to be exciting. I found Nolfi's picture, starring Matt Damon and Emily Blunt, to be a fantastic throwback. A motion picture that encourages the viewer to enjoy a romantic adventure that is free of the cynicism and grittiness that seem to be prerequisites for modern film culture. I loved every minute of it. In the interest of full disclosure, I can already sense that many people will not find this film nearly as enjoyable as I have. To some extent, this response is fair. Unlike the advertisements, The Adjustment Bureau, is not a thriller in the vein of Christopher Nolan's Inception. Instead, the audience is treated to a classic romance, similar in tone to classic Jimmy Stewart films, but with an element of science fiction and fantasy. If you are not willing to accept the fantastic, the supernatural, and the unbelievable then this film is certainly not for you. Furthermore, the ending of the film is decidedly rushed, not quite fitting the journey that we've taken with the two protagonists. But by that point I had been delighted too much by the characters and the whimsical tone of the film to even care.

via flicksandbits.com

Speaking of the main characters, Damon and Blunt are fantastic together. The chemistry that these two actors bring to the screen is palpable and truly exciting to watch. Even when the film threatens to lose the viewer in ridiculousness the two leads, particularly Matt Damon, are there to keep the events grounded in humanity. The plot itself is straight forward and no one is going to be surprised by the "twists" (if you can even call them that), but the true magic of the film comes not from trying to figure out whats going to happen in the end, but instead just letting the movie sweep you up in the adventure. In this sense, the film is reminiscent of Wanted, in that it is able to rise above the absurdity of its premise and generate a fun ride for those that are willing to take the plunge. I have to say that first-time director George Nolfi does a superb job at weaving romance and suspense, while maintaing a consistent tone. It was refreshing to be able to actually watch the action on the screen instead of being dazed and confused by rapid editing and loud explosions. I could gush over this film all day, but instead I'll just say that this is one of my favorite films of 2011. If you have a taste for fantasy, classic adventure, or character based romance than do not hesitate to go see The Adjustment Bureau. If you're like me, you'll leave the theatre with a grin on your face, happy to be reminded that the movies can still take you through a door to another world.

Grade: A-

Dan