One choice can transform you-or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves--and herself--while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love. Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable--and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships. Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.
Insurgent Movie Reviews
Setting your expectations low for a movie is always a good idea. That way you never come out disappointed. With Insurgent, I figured it was just the same film as Divergent, just rehashed. It's not exactly a fresh and bold new idea, but it did feel different than the first. And definitely better. With newcomers Octavia Spencer and Naomi Watts the film gets elevated by terrific performances across the board. The cast is great but the CGI doesn't look as fake and the story is less(ish) confusing than Divergent. I will say it didn't bother me at all later in the movie, but it was quite funny and awkward to see Ansel Elgort, Miles Teller, and Theo James all with Shailene Woodley on screen together, considering they have each been a film love interest.
The main problem with Divergent was the screenplay. I thought it was too confusing for someone who wasn't familiar with the book series. While Insurgent will be puzzling for newcomers, I felt less confused this time around than last. There's a lot going on. Whole lot of characters that fall in and out of the story without much to do at times, but the performances saved the film. I think if you try to forget about the unexplainable elements of the film your viewing experience is enhanced. For example, I don't remember too much about Tobias' back story or even the exact intentions of Jeanine, but I let the movie play out without complaining. Jai Courtney's character, though terminator like, was an improvement over the one-note character in Divergent. I also thought the chemistry between the leads of Miles Teller, Theo James, and Shailene Woodley were much better this time around. Woodley one again gives an emotionally powerful performance, even if not all of it is actually real, it felt legit. I keep talking about her ability to cry on screen but it's true, the woman can shed a tear.
I think one of the main problems with the film is the inconsistencies with some character decisions. I didn't read the books but I just became baffled with some of the directions that Miles Teller and Ansel Elgort's characters. There is too much back and forth for my liking. Kate Winslet and Naomi Watts both steal each of their respected scenes. And although for the former there isn't a whole lot to do, I enjoyed watching her character arc unfold. The ending is a big animal to tackle. And without spoilers I cant talk too much about it, but I will say I was pretty indifferent. I almost feel like they could end the franchise right there. But at the same time I guess there is more of this world to explore, no pun intended. So with a few unneeded characters and with plenty of confusing character decisions, Insurgent turns out to be an okay sci-fi. It's nowhere near as poor as the reviews and much better than the first, but there's still plenty to improve on for the next.
