The Divergent movie series comprises three completed films: Divergent (2014), Insurgent (2015), and Allegiant (2016). While a fourth film, Ascendant, was planned, it was ultimately cancelled and repurposed as a television movie, a project which also failed to materialize.
Understanding the Divergent Series Film Adaptation
The Divergent series, based on the young adult dystopian novels by Veronica Roth, captivated audiences with its themes of identity, societal control, and individual rebellion. The initial success of Divergent led to enthusiastic anticipation for subsequent installments. However, the adaptation process faced several challenges, ultimately resulting in an incomplete film series. The shift from cinematic releases to television production signals the changing landscape of adapting young adult literature and the importance of box office performance in determining the fate of franchises.
The Initial Trilogy: A Closer Look
Divergent (2014)
The first film, Divergent, introduces us to Beatrice “Tris” Prior, a teenager living in a dystopian Chicago where society is divided into five factions: Abnegation (the selfless), Amity (the peaceful), Candor (the honest), Dauntless (the brave), and Erudite (the intelligent). Tris discovers she is Divergent, meaning she doesn’t fit neatly into any single faction. The film follows her journey as she chooses to join Dauntless and navigate the dangers of being different in a society obsessed with conformity. This film was a box office success, fueling excitement for the rest of the series.
Insurgent (2015)
Insurgent picks up where the first film left off, with Tris and Four on the run from Erudite leader Jeanine Matthews. The film delves deeper into the mysteries of the Divergent and the simulations designed to control them. Tensions rise as factions clash, and Tris is forced to make difficult choices to protect those she loves. While commercially successful, Insurgent received less favorable reviews than its predecessor, signaling potential issues for the franchise’s long-term viability.
Allegiant (2016)
Allegiant deviates significantly from the source material. It takes Tris and Four beyond the wall surrounding Chicago and reveals a shocking truth about the factions and the purpose behind the Divergent. The film attempts to expand the scope of the story, but many critics and fans felt the changes detracted from the core themes of the book. Allegiant‘s disappointing box office performance ultimately led to the cancellation of the planned fourth film, Ascendant.
The Abandoned Conclusion: Ascendant
The final book in the Divergent trilogy, Allegiant, was originally intended to be split into two films, following the trend popular in young adult adaptations at the time. The fourth film, titled Ascendant, was scheduled for release in 2017. However, due to the underperformance of Allegiant, Lionsgate decided to abandon the theatrical release and instead pursue a television movie that would serve as a series spin-off. This plan ultimately fell through, leaving the Divergent film series unfinished and the story unresolved on screen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why was Ascendant cancelled?
The primary reason for the cancellation of Ascendant was the disappointing box office performance of Allegiant. The film’s lackluster reception and negative reviews prompted Lionsgate to reconsider its investment in the franchise.
2. Was there ever a trailer for Ascendant?
No, there was no official trailer released for Ascendant. Production was halted before any significant footage was filmed or marketing materials were created.
3. What was the planned storyline for Ascendant?
The planned storyline for Ascendant was intended to loosely follow the second half of the Allegiant novel, focusing on the aftermath of the revelations about the Bureau of Genetic Welfare and Tris’s attempts to navigate the complex political landscape outside of Chicago. However, significant changes to the source material were already apparent in Allegiant, so it’s difficult to say exactly how the film would have differed.
4. Will there ever be another Divergent movie?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for another Divergent movie. The film rights remain with Lionsgate, but the likelihood of a revival is low, given the franchise’s past performance and the actors’ involvement in other projects.
5. Are the Divergent movies available on streaming services?
The availability of the Divergent movies on streaming services varies depending on the region and licensing agreements. Check popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max in your area to see if they are currently available.
6. Is it necessary to read the Divergent books to understand the movies?
While the movies attempt to adapt the core narrative of the books, they do make significant changes. Reading the books can provide a deeper understanding of the characters’ motivations, the world-building, and the overall themes. However, the movies can be enjoyed independently, though some plot points might seem less clear without the context of the source material.
7. Who were the main actors in the Divergent movies?
The main actors in the Divergent movies were Shailene Woodley as Beatrice “Tris” Prior, Theo James as Tobias “Four” Eaton, Ansel Elgort as Caleb Prior, Zoë Kravitz as Christina, and Miles Teller as Peter Hayes.
8. How closely do the Divergent movies follow the books?
The Divergent movies diverge considerably from the books, especially in Allegiant. Character arcs are altered, plot points are changed, and the overall tone is noticeably different. The decision to split Allegiant into two films exacerbated these issues, as the adaptations became increasingly detached from the source material.
9. What is the overall message of the Divergent series?
The Divergent series explores themes of identity, individuality, societal control, and the dangers of conformity. It encourages viewers and readers to question authority, embrace their differences, and fight for what they believe in.
10. Did the cast members want to complete the series?
Most of the cast members expressed disappointment with the cancellation of Ascendant. Shailene Woodley, in particular, voiced her reluctance to participate in a television movie and expressed her attachment to the theatrical film experience.
11. Are there any Divergent spin-off books or movies?
While there are no direct spin-off books or movies that continue the main Divergent storyline, Veronica Roth has written companion books that explore the world of Divergent from different perspectives.
12. Where can I find fan theories and discussions about what Ascendant could have been?
Numerous fan forums, online communities, and social media groups are dedicated to discussing the Divergent series. Searching for “Divergent Ascendant fan theories” or joining relevant online communities will provide access to a wide range of speculative discussions about the unmade film.