The Adjustment Bureau

Sci-fi is a double-edged sword. In capable hands, it could easily slice into the inexhaustible repository of knowledge and creativity – where innovation and critical thinking flourish. Fall into the wrong hands and its innovative tendencies could potentially butcher ‘the human touch’ and sever any semblance of emotional authenticity from the story. The key is to find a balance between absurdity and humanity.

The Adjustment Bureau is a rarity, one of the few sci-fi films that highlights the human experience instead of merely utilizing it as a plot device to propel a narrative. In other words, it’s a sci-fi movie with a heartbeat.

Matt Damon’s David is a charismatic yet down-on-his-luck congressional candidate whose chance encounter with the captivating Elise (Emily Blunt) inspires him to deliver the most heartfelt concession speech of his life – thereby changing his career trajectory. They both believe that they are soulmates, but for reasons unbeknownst to them, they are constantly being kept apart by strange men in suits playing God, interfering with their right to privacy and personal autonomy.

The heart and soul of the film, Damon and Blunt have a palpable chemistry and bring gravitas and integrity to the story. You empathize with them, understand their motives, and ultimately root for their success. They make us believe that true love, like free will, is a gift — and therefore worth fighting for.

Written and directed by George Nolfi, the film is based on the 1954 short story entitled Adjustment Team by the legendary writer Philip K. Dick. It’s a paranoia-filled movie that seamlessly incorporates elements of science fiction, spirituality, and the nature of humanity into a profoundly engrossing tale about the power of human connection and free will. There are no explosions, firefights, or highly stylized fight scenes. All the action takes place on foot, grounding it’s high-concept political drama to capture our hearts and minds. At the center of the convoluted plot are flawed characters that we can empathize with.

Wonderfully acted, expertly directed, and well-crafted, The Adjustment Bureau delivers a gratifying ending that brings closure — while encouraging us to examine our own innermost thoughts, feelings, and principles.

Photos:  Universal Pictures