Walking into this movie, I knew the reviews were not so good. They said it was predictable and only good because of the acting on Shailene Woodley. Well, no offense at all to Ms. Woodley, but this movie worked because of much more than her. And this is coming from a huge fan of the book series that inspired the film.
Woodley stars as Beatrice Prior, a quiet girl who leaves her family of the selfless abnegation for the brave, and often times crazy, dauntless. There, she meets Four, played with a quite charm by Theo James (most known as the Turkish Diplomat who died in Lady Mary's bed in Downton Abbey). There is political intrigue, romance, and battle sequences galore. So really, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The movie succeeds not just because of the acting of Woodley, but of the whole cast. Woodley shows that she is not just a good actress in small, critically acclaimed types (such as The Spectacular Now and The Decedents). She can also be a star in the big budget types as well. James brings the brooding to new heights and grace as the initiate instructor who has a soft side that is brought out every so often. Kate Winslet is an even better villain than I could have dreamed. Miles Teller plays the part of the jerk so well, it is making me not want to meet him in real life. And Ansel Elgort shows that he can steal scenes as Caleb, Beatrice's brother who also happens to leave the abnegation, but for Erudite. Elgort also makes me feel much better about his casting in the upcoming The Fault in Our Stars adaptation opposite Woodley. He can hold his own.
This is a movie about finding one's self when no one else wants you too. And I think it held up to the message of the book. And if you don't agree with me, just star as Theo James and enjoy the many action sequences.
Final say: Don't listen to the mass of critics. This is a movie worth seeing and has the potential to become a beloved saga just below the level of The Hunger Games (and that is high, high praise).
Grade: A -
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