When The Adjustment Bureau first came out, I added it my list of movies to see someday. I finally had my opportunity today (I know, I know, I’m way behind the times). It would be a good film to show to a philosophy class, considering all the questions it raises. Here are a few that came to mind as I watched:
- What is the Adjustment Bureau? In the film it is hinted that the agents we see can be thought of as angels, and perhaps the “Chairman” as god. Is this view tenable for Christians? Why or why not?
- What is the role of fate in the story? With what major world view, ancient or modern, does the movie’s view of fate fit best?
- Do we ever know if the AB agents are telling the truth about the “Plan?”
- Why are the agents more concerned about the plan than the people in the plan?
- What things in life are worth pursuing no matter what the authorities around you might say?
- Is it ever possible that what is best for our lives, taken as a whole, is not what we think is best right now?
- What do you think of the way the major characters isolate themselves from the wisdom of others? They both act as if they are best off consulting their own feelings and desires, with little or no input from others.
- What is the significance of David & Elise reaching the AB through the door at the base of the Statue of Liberty, given Harry’s point later about free will?
- To what degree do humans have free will? Can it ever be the case that we take ourselves to have free will when we don’t – or vice versa?
Bandits No More 