Atlas Shrugged Movie Review

‘Atlas Shrugged’ Movie Evokes More Than a Shrug

“Atlas Shrugged,” the new movie based on the 1957 novel written by Ayn Rand, is a political thriller fit for the whole family. Directed by Paul Johansson, “Atlas Shrugged” brings to the big screen a chilling imagining of a dystopian future for America—a scenario not so far removed from reality in the minds of many Americans. The film portrays an overreaching government—again, not a stretch in an era of government bailouts and takeovers of various industries—corrupt politicians and equally-corrupt businesses; in other words, crony capitalism. 

Dagny Taggart, portrayed by Taylor Schilling, is the film’s protagonist— an executive of a giant railroad company founded by her grandfather. The film chronicles her attempt to save the family business from difficult economic times characterized by a crooked political machine in the form of collectivism and statism. During her struggle, Dagny Taggart crosses paths with Hank Rearden (Grant Bowler), a self-made steel magnate, and they unite to fight against the government’s attempt to enforce control over successful businesses.

“Atlas Shrugged” manages to pull you in from the moment you sit down. The question of “Who is John Galt?” permeates the film. Readers of Rand’s most well-known novel will recognize the question and what it means, but those who haven’t read the hefty best-seller will either have to read the tome or see the movie.

Like many films based on books, “Atlas Shrugged” has received mixed reviews.  Even those who have not read Rand’s magnum opus, however, will find the film easy to follow. Despite a less than large budget—at least by Hollywood standards—the film is visually appealing and the largely unknown actors acquit themselves quite well. 

For those burned out by the stream of leftist drivel that routinely flows out of Hollywood, this film is a breath of fresh air with its spirited defense of freedom and capitalism. “Atlas Shrugged” is a fine film for political junkies and mystery-lovers alike. 

This is the first part of a planned three-part movie, with the second and third movies scheduled for release in spring 2012 and spring 2013, respectively.