Director: George Nolfi
Stars: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Anthony Mackie, Terence Stamp
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 113 minutes
Studio: Universal

Romantic action films are good when the chemistry is right. If the storyline isn’t solid, the actors are not cast with precision and the cinematography is used as “cover”, well, call Houston, “cause you have a problem!” Not the case with The Adjustment Bureau, an unusual film about love, the universe, the great plan for our lives and imperfect determination.

Possibly classified as a science fiction love story, The Adjustment Bureau is set in modern times, Senate candidate David Norris (Matt Damon) meets an enthralling young woman name Elise Sellas (Emily Blunt) on a otherwise dismal night. After lots of clever banter, and a long yummy kiss, the couple left with an unquenched yet thick attraction are forced to part and Elise disappeared into the night.

David’s search for the mysterious damsel who has captured his heart, is hindered by a group of representatives from The Adjustment Bureau. Mad Men’s John Slattery is Richardson, one of the top “case workers.” Richardson leads a motley crew of men who wear similar clothing, long coats and dapper hats, and spend their days, mining the actions of the earth dwelling. Terence Stamp is Thompson, the toughest case worker on the block and is brought in when the tough work needs to be done. In a world where a God “reference” is referred to as “The Chairman” and supposed Angels are called “case workers”. Only these Angels curse and say the Lord’s name in vain, hurt and threaten people and cause accidents all in the name of their mission, which are orders from the Chairman. Confused? You won’t be when you watch the movie, but you might wonder , “What kind of mean-spirited angels are these?”


Anthony Mackie is Harry Mitchell, the good angel, the angel that questions orders and follows his own mind.

In the midst of all of this is a truly moving and heartfelt love convincingly expressed by Damon and Blunt are the key to the film because their onscreen chemistry is sweet and deeply intense, what a great pair. In fact, the couple might be the only reason to see this film if the scenic backdrops weren’t so lush and inviting. “Ain’t technology and computer generated everything grand?”

Norris fights to be with Elise, but The Adjustment Bureau has other plans and the rest of the film is watching the struggle ensue. Full of action which features David and Elise running, hand-in-hand through secret doorways , and good case workers versus non-charitable case workers, The Adjustment Bureau reeks of both clarity and confusion. Just don’t try and make sense of it all and just enjoy the crazy ride.

Romance movies that deeply connect with the viewer,demonstrate the art of attraction and translate the feeling of identifying and falling for a soul mate. Coupled with action that will keep you guessing, is, in this case, well worth the view.