WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
Everything you’ve known or understood was a lie. The system you felt so assured of was only a façade for a more sinister agenda. You exposed that conspiracy, and suddenly, an entire life and society is in upheaval. Such is the reality for Tris Prior (Shailene Woodley), whose entire notion of living a peaceful life has been destroyed like the Factions which used to provide order for the citizens of Chicago. In the wake of corrupt leader Jeanine’s fall, the Factionless now stand to put those who discarded them on “trial” and enforce swift justice. Knowing this isn’t their mindset, Tris, Four (Theo James), Christina (Zoe Kravitz), Peter (Miles Teller), and Caleb (Ansel Elgort) make their move to go beyond the city’s wall.
Finding nothing but a completely desolate wasteland of red rain and charred ground, their journey is almost cut short until the unexpected revealing of a new group of survivors called the Pure who, along with their leader David (Jeff Daniels), are a part of the Bureau of Genetic Welfare. Thinking they are finally safe, Tris and the group settle into life at the Bureau’s main facility. But, as David takes more interest in Tris’ divergence, Four becomes suspect that there is more going on than meets the eye. Upon digging further, the Bureau’s dark intentions and purpose are revealed. Knowing their only true home is now in even greater peril than its own internal power struggles, Tris and Four battle for love, friendships, and the very soul of Chicago and its now war-torn people.
Next, my Mind:
“Insurgent” director Robert Schwentke returns to the lead chair for this next installment of the “Divergent” film series, and most certainly does so with solid results. Keeping with the narrative’s edgier tone, the tale moves along at a quick clip as we follow the ongoing plight of Tris, Four, and the others with them who are continually forced to navigate the deepening chaos the Factionless are sinking into. Visually impactful as well, we are treated to what the world looks like beyond the wall, and it isn’t a place you desire to build a Summer home. It is also a stark change in scenery and attitude with the Bureau and their agenda being introduced, almost presenting, dare I say, a fascist-like component in their ideas of what is pure and what is considered damaged when it comes to people. Great moments of action and drama assist in keeping the viewer watching events take shape as well.
Woodley continues to impress and grow in her role as Tris, evolving the character to this point where she is a far cry from the quiet, passive young woman she once was. Now a full blown freedom fighter and rebel, she battles with ferocity, but also shows those times where she just wants life to return to some sense of normalcy and restfulness for Chicago. James brings his full bravado to Four as always, showcasing one seriously formidable dude while also having the willingness to give love, compassion and loyalty to those he values most. Being watchful over Tris but also being willing to make hard choices, his leadership and fortitude remain constant. Daniels turns up the villain dial to play David, and does so as we expect a character actor of his caliber to do–awesomely.
Teller’s shifty Peter, Kravitz’ cute but tough Christina, and Elgort’s “looking for redemption” Caleb all support well here, too, each adding the appropriate elements to the bigger picture. Additional supporting turns by Naomi Watts as Four’s mother and Factionless leader Evelyn along with Octavia Spencer, Daniel Dae Kim, Maggie Q, and Bill Skarsgard all contribute to the proceedings.
There is another part yet to come in 2017, so this one is left purposefully open-ended. But in total, “Allegiant” is another worthy chapter in the film series and we can only imagine how it will all end for Tris, Four, and the other characters we’ve come to love.
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
