Divergent

A franchise was born with the highly anticipated release of “Divergent,” similar to young adult hit “The Hunger Games” (2012). “Divergent” is based on the popular young adult trilogy by Veronica Roth, followed by the sequel “Insurgent,” and the prequel “Allegiant.”

The premise of the movie is set in a futuristic dystopia where a fictional society is divided into five factions, each signifying an altered virtue. There are Dauntless, whose demeanor is bold, daring, and intense; Abnegation, who are typically reserved, lack vanity, and are never self-indulgent; Candor, who are all about honestly and tell the truth in every situation; Amity, who are described as peaceful and kind; and lastly, Erudite, who are always focused and serious.

The teenagers in this society have to decide if they want to choose to stay in their own faction or branch out into another, a decision they have to keep the rest of their lives. There is then, of course, the outcast group, Divergent. The Divergent are considered the outcasts of the society, meaning members of the group do not fit into just one single group. Instead, they share the qualities of all five factions.

“Divergent,” which opened in theaters on March 21, grossed over 56 million in its first weekend alone. The film stars the impressive young actress Shailene Woodley. Woodley is well-known for her heartfelt performance in The Descendants, playing as George Clooney’s rebellious daughter dealing with her mother’s untimely death. Woodley can also be found in the romance flick The Spectacular Now alongside fellow Divergent cast mate Miles Teller.

A surprising newcomer Theo James does not to disappoint in his role as Four, the domineering, yet gentle protector of Tris.  Kate Winslet also shares the screen with Woodley and James, as the fearsome leader of the factions who is bent on discovering the Divergent within the society.

“Divergent” is an exciting, fun, fast paced thriller that all will be sure to enjoy.