Rob, I haven't seen the movie but I'd bet the ranch that they changed it from the one in the book. I also found that the motivations and actions/reactions were sometimes not logical or even very probable, IOW he was somewhat clumsy and illogical in presenting his characters' thoughts and actions. Too bad, 'cause the premise and main characters are quite interesting.
Haven't read the Stephenson work you cite, but I COMPLETELY agree about his The Baroque Cycle, simply superb and by far the best book(s) that I read last year. His Anathem is also quite good but required me about 10 pages to get into step with his narrative style in that one.
Regards, Joe
