The Maze Runner

The Maze Runner
PG-13
Running time: 1 hour 54 minutes
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
Director: Wes Ball
Cast: Dylan O’Brien, Aml Ameen, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Ki Hong Lee, Will Poulter, Blake Cooper, Kaya Scodelario, Dexter Darden, Chris Sheffield, Jacob Latimore, Alexander Flores, Randall D. Cunningham, Joe Adler, Patricia Clarkson.

Review
Based on James Dashner’s best-selling novel, ‘The Maze Runner’ is yet another adaptation of young adult genre that deals with dystopian survival. Directed by graphic and visual effects artist Wes Ball, the film is consistent with its elements – humane characters, compelling story and beautiful special effects set within the marvellous architecture that is the maze. While the bold effort of casting an emsemble of fresh faces is clearly a risk-taking movement that decides the life and death of the franchise, such attempt is lauded in terms of its authencity in bringing a quality, visceral experience to the cinema. Impressive performances by the strong leads aside, the film differs a lot in terms of comparison with its much feminism-inspired counterpart ‘The Hunger Games’ by setting up the universe with mostly male characters. In conclusion, ‘The Maze Runner’, being the first entry of the franchise, is a dark and thrilling ride into a whole new world. With such solid premise displayed, the franchise definitely has the potential to achieve blockbuster status of epic proportion.

Rating

4/5 Stars