Divergent (2014)

Divergent is a film based on a bestselling trilogy of books written by Veronica Roth. The books have found a large following amongst teenagers perhaps due to the fact that there are aspects which this age group can identify with as they discover their own character and their place in this world.

Divergent is set in futuristic dystopia society in which people are pigeon-holed into five distinct factions based on their personality type. Each faction represent a different virtue; Abnegation, for the selfless; Amity, for the peaceful; Candor, for the honest; Dauntless, for the brave; and Erudite, for the Intelligent. Each teenager has to decide if they want to stay in their faction or switch to another –ultimately for the rest of their lives.

Central to the story is Tris; 16 year old, independent girl who makes a choice which could destroy her. She and her fellow faction-members have to live through a highly competitive initiation process to live out the choice they have made. They must endure extreme physical and intense psychological tests, which exposes who they really are. But Tris is different. She is Divergent.

She doesn’t fit in any of the groups and she can’t be controlled. Tris becomes more reckless in her new life, battling to earn her place whilst hiding from those who would suspect her secret. Tris discovers a growing conflict that threatens those she loves and the society she was born in, and together with the mysterious Four sets out to overcome those who threaten to overthrow the factions.

Shailene Woodley, through the delicate power of her acting, portrays Tris as the strong-willed, determined girl, but also brings out something new in her character.

In my view, the casting was spot on; they captured perfectly the fierceness of the dauntless leaders and also allowed an insight into some of the major characters; Christina, Peter and Will.

The cinematic effect is powerful; the raw imagery is used to convey the perfect representation of the post-apocalyptic Chicago as described in the books.

Divergent is a thrilling, fast-paced and a thought-provoking movie; this adaption of the divergent books will enthral existing Divergent fans and win new fans who have yet to read the books but who I’m sure will be making an early visit to the book shop on exiting the cinema.

Although the books are squarely aimed at the teenage and young adult market I believe the film transpires to entertain a boarder age range and I recommend this film for aged 12 and upwards.