They finally did it. After reading this book in the early 90’s I kept asking why hasn’t this been made into a movie? The wait is over and the results amazing.
We saw Atlas Shrugged pt 1 was at the Seattle Metro Cinema. This is the University District. As we walked in to take our seats we were surrounded by people of many types. Young couples very well dressed in black. Is the shadowy figure of John Galt a fashion trend? There are people in the traditional Northwest dress, men in denim and flannel women in slacks and blouses. The audience was young and filled with positive energy. A woman is handing out “Who is John Galt” stickers. At least one man is wearing a gold atlas pin. A young lady was handing out brochures for the Young Americans for Liberty. There is hardly an empty seat. So far so good!
The movie is closer to the book than any one could ask for. Of course there is material missing from the book and some things combined. The great part is how little the film changes from the book. John Aglialoro and Brian Patrick O’Toole did an outstanding job with the screenplay. The few additions/changes from the book make the film more believable. The DOW at 4,000, gasoline at $37.50/gal, the Middle East imploding. I was waiting for political parties to named but that never happened.
The chemistry between the cast is good. The characters are all believable. I reread the book recently for my own enjoyment and to get a better appreciation for the film. The key question is ... Will the audience understand the movie without reading the book? My friend and I convinced our wives to see the film. Both of the girls have not read it or follow politics as closely as my friend and me.
The girls were surprised at the romance between Hank and Dagney. Both feel the book is worth reading for that. Over dinner after the film the girls were full of questions. Does Hank leave Lillian for Dagney? Do they marry? Where is Atlantis? Does it really exist?
Atlas Shrugged part 1 does the most important thing any form of entertainment can do. The audience wanted more! I will see this film again in two weeks and will buy the DVD as soon as it is available. To everyone involved with this film “Thank you”. You guys hit it out of the park. See next you year on April 15th for Atlas Shrugged pt 2.
