If you’ve made it through Season 3 of “The Summer I Turned Pretty” and you’re looking for a new binge watch that combines dystopian drama and a dash of sci fi, the “Maze Runner” trilogy is worth a second look.
Directed by Wes Ball, the dystopian trilogy includes “The Maze Runner” (2014), “Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials” (2015), and “Maze Runner: The Death Cure” (2018).
The first “The Maze Runner” takes place in a huge maze, which includes a green, open space called “The Glade,” populated by teenage boys. Each month, a new glade member arrives in a mechanical box that arrives with supplies. As the movie begins, the main character, Thomas (Dylan O’Brien), arrives as the newest glade member. With no memory of who he is and why he is there, Thomas is quickly shown the ropes and given a job to help the community survive unknown but deadly threats. Soon after, another unexpected member arrives, tragedy strikes, leading to multiple fatalities, and a possible way out of the maze. Will Thomas and his fellow teens, Newt (Thomas Brodie-Sangster), Chuck (Blake Cooper), and the others, survive? You must watch it to find out.
The “Scorch Trials” and “Death Cure” continue that basic story as the teens face new dangers and questionable loyalties as they race to survive a deadly plague and power-hungry leaders.
According to movie rating site Rotten Tomatoes, viewers had mixed feelings about the trilogy, generally approving of the first one (66% positive) compared to the second (48%) and third (43%). In all, the movie series had an average rating of 52.3% among viewers.
“Everything about the movies is great. The plot is really what distinguishes it from other dystopian movies. The first “Maze Runner” movie is my favorite, and my favorite scene was when Thomas was coming up in the box,” said FCHS sophomore Ariona Dawson. “I would give the whole series an 8/10, and a definite recommendation to watch,” she added.
“Dylan O’Brian was the best part of this movie series, and Newt was also one of my favorites throughout the movies. But, I also like how the book was portrayed in the movie, even though some scenes weren’t always exact,” said senior Cloe Woodson. “The teamwork is really what distinguishes these movies from other dystopian movies,” said Woodson.
However, not all Flucos agree that the movies are worth a watch.
“The movies were boring, and I think a lot more dystopian movies are a lot better. There was no good character development, the plot wasn’t good,” said sophomore Audrey Philpott. “The Starving Games” (a parody movie of “The Hunger Games”) had a better plot and character development,” said Philpott.
Still, I remain a fan. The characters are well-written, and the plots kept me watching even as the third movie in the trilogy lost steam. I give this movie series an 8/10, especially if you like to watch anything dystopian. If you’re more of a reader, read the books first, as they are really good too.
The “Maze Runner” trilogy is available for streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Fandango, Google Play, and Apple TV. You can check out the books for free by visiting the FCHS Library or purchase them at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Costco.
