WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
This second film, based on the popular Veronica Roth-penned Young Adult fantasy series “Divergent” and directed this time around by “The Time Traveler’s Wife” and “RED” helmer Robert Schwentke, picks up in the wake of the faction-shattering events of “Divergent”, and finds Dauntless members Tris Prior (Shailene Woodley) and Four (Theo James) in hiding, hoping to gain momentum that will allow them to finally strike at the heart of their society’s strife, Head Council member Jeanine (Kate Winslet), whose plan to take over the ruling system by destroying Divergents and those who harbor them has started to become a reality. But Jeanine has an even greater plan involving a once hidden artifact that may hold the key to what she believes will be a leading from the society’s Founders, signaling the next evolution of their growth as a community. Still fighting her own fears and self-doubt, Tris and Four embark on a new and dangerous quest to align themselves with some who would see them both turned over to Jeanine and her “cause”. Additionally hunted by Dauntless leaders Eric (Jai Courtney) and Max (Mekhi Phifer), Tris also has to battle against former friends and even family who have been wooed by Jeanine’s poisoning words about the threat Divergents pose. Secrets are exposed, loyalties are tested, and new alliances form. But even when it seems new circumstances have finally presented themselves and enemies are deposed, it only brings about the next stage of their journey where an unknown land awaits discovery.
Just like the first installment of this series, “Insurgent” moves along at a steady pace and building intensity throughout its runtime. The added benefit here is that like the overall similarly-toned efforts “The Hunger Games” and “The Maze Runner“, engaging in the plight of the actual characters is what the point is here, rather than constant visual effects that could gloss over the overall story. Woodley continues to impress in her portrayal of the deeply loyal, strong, yet inwardly damaged Tris, who is yet again forced to become even more the symbol of the freedom for the insurgents and their fight against Jeanine than she’s ever wanted to be. There’s a conviction in the way Woodley carries herself in this role and makes Tris a flawed, but supportable presence. James also remains strong as Tobias “Four” Eaton, battling his own inner demons along the way, but always keeping his first love and focus on Tris. Winslet still gives us a villain worth despising in Jeanine, continuously infusing her with that sense of overconfident arrogance that just begs to be silenced. Solid supporting roles by Ansel Elgort, Miles Teller, Courtney, and series newcomer (but veteran actress) Naomi Watts all assist with the greater picture being painted. And do believe that there are some very impressive visuals in this film that did certainly make the extra price of IMAX 3D worth it for this reviewer. The climax very effectively leaves us satisfied yet most assuredly wanting more, and solidifies “Insurgent” and this series as one of the best YA film offerings currently out.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
