ALLEGIANT(2016)

Robert Schwentke’s film with a screenplay by Stephen Chbosky, Bill Collage, Adam Cooper & Noah Oppenheim is based on the third and final book in the DIVERGENT series by Veronica Roth (DIVERGENT, INSURGENT, ALLEGIANT). It should be pointed out that this film is only the first half of the story with the second half entitled ASCENDANT to be released next year. This is a science fiction drama with a strong theme that all human life is precious, regardless of who is considered damaged by society, and must be guarded at all times, even if that means turning against your own government and at times friends. I basically liked this film but not as much as the first two installments, however I found its story compelling and not overwhelmed by the special effects, which in the case of a film like this is notable. If you liked the first two films I think you will be pleased with this installement and especially if you’ve read the books. I have always felt that these books are actually better written than THE HUNGER GAMES series (which are indeed well written) which also deals with a post apocalyptic world. A wonderful cast of actors lead by the luminous Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Ansel Elgort, Miles Teller, Zoe Kravitz, Naomi Watts, Jeff Daniels, Octavia Spencer, Nadia Hiker, Jonny Weston (very good as the villain), Maggie Q, Ray Stevenson, Hannah Alligood, Andy Bean, Bill Skarsgard, Keiynan Lonsdale and Daniel Dae Kim.