Teen novels made into movies is nearly as big a trend as comic book movies. Some make a lot of money and others fail. Divergent is profitable. The first had romance, but the society introduced was an intriguing one beyond it's intended age group. Bigger effects, bigger budget, bigger expectations, and Insurgent now hits theaters nationwide.
Tris (Shailene Woodley) must confront her inner demons and search for her friends. Her relationship with Four (Theo James) continues to grow as powerful forces threaten to tear her society apart. Her world is on the brink of war and Tris will learn if Divergent is a flaw or the key to a better future.
The cast comes across more comfortable this go around. I like that the plot is simple and doesn't try to do too much. Sequels some times make the mistake of dragging things out causing too much down time. Insurgent doesn't make that mistake. There is a good balance of time between plot and action. I also appreciated that the romance between Tris and Four feels natural. There is chemistry and it's paced well. The special effects are solid and the film doesn't need to completely rely on the them to keep you into the story. The world may be a little confusing to some and there are still plenty of hidden metaphors, but the all work.
Miles Teller steals the show. You hate him, but at the same time you love the fact that you hate him. I like him in this,but that will go away in the Fantastic Four reboot. He has plenty of talent and has come along way since Footloose. My one flaw with the film is too much time on Tris and Four. There are a lot of other characters that needed more screen time and development. I won't hold that against the film over all and I was loving the abrupt ending. I believe Insurgent manages a rare feet. It's a sequel that is better than the first.
