Divergent, film review: Energetic teen sci-fi yarn let down by its schematic storyline

Your support helps us to tell the story

Support Now

Find out moreClose

My recent work focusing on Latino voters in Arizona has shown me how crucial independent journalism is in giving voice to underrepresented communities.

Your support is what allows us to tell these stories, bringing attention to the issues that are often overlooked. Without your contributions, these voices might not be heard.

Every dollar you give helps us continue to shine a light on these critical issues in the run up to the election and beyond

Eric Garcia

Washington Bureau Chief

This is a slickly made, energetic teen sci-fi yarn, let down by its derivative and schematic storyline. Shailene Woodley (George Clooney's daughter in The Descendants) shows plenty of gumption as Tris Prior, the Hunger Games-style heroine.

Kate Winslet, in ice-queen mode, has an effective cameo as one of the "Erudite" leaders, whose deep intelligence masks her utter malice and ruthlessness.

The setting is a futuristic Chicago in which society has been divided into factions. Tris is part of the "Abnegation" tribe but has "Dauntless" tendencies.

As she suffers at "Dauntless" boot camp, she learns that a "Divergent" such as herself is seen as a threat to society. ("If you don't fit into a category, they can't control you.")