The Divergent series, based on Veronica Roth’s popular young adult novels, captured the attention of readers and moviegoers alike. While the book trilogy concluded with three installments, the film adaptation took a different route. There are three completed Divergent movies: Divergent (2014), Insurgent (2015), and Allegiant (2016).
The Rise and Fall of the Divergent Film Franchise
The Divergent film franchise held immense promise, initially riding the wave of successful dystopian young adult adaptations like The Hunger Games. The first film, Divergent, proved to be a box office success, setting the stage for a potentially long-running series. However, as the adaptations progressed, creative and financial challenges led to a premature end to the theatrical releases.
Initial Success: Divergent (2014)
The first film closely followed the plot of the first book, introducing audiences to Tris Prior (Shailene Woodley) and the faction-based society of post-apocalyptic Chicago. The film’s success hinged on its faithful adaptation and strong performances from the cast. It established the core themes of self-discovery, identity, and rebellion against oppressive systems.
Shifting Gears: Insurgent (2015)
Insurgent attempted to expand on the world-building, introducing new characters and exploring the conflicts between the factions in more depth. While it maintained a decent box office performance, it received mixed reviews, with some critics pointing to deviations from the source material.
A Fractured Finale: Allegiant (2016)
The decision to split the final book, Allegiant, into two films proved to be the series’ undoing. Allegiant (Part 1) underperformed both critically and commercially. This led Lionsgate to cancel plans for the second part, Ascendant, opting instead to develop a television movie and series, which ultimately never materialized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Divergent Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Divergent film series, providing clarity and addressing common misconceptions:
FAQ 1: Why Was Ascendant Canceled?
The primary reason for the cancellation of Ascendant was the underperformance of Allegiant at the box office. This, combined with mixed critical reception, led Lionsgate to re-evaluate the franchise’s future. The proposed shift to a television movie and series was an attempt to revitalize the brand, but ultimately failed to gain traction. Budget constraints and rumored casting conflicts likely contributed as well.
FAQ 2: Will There Ever Be an Ascendant Movie or TV Show?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for an Ascendant movie or television show. While the possibility remains open in the future, the project has been shelved for several years, and the likelihood of its revival diminishes with time. The actors have also moved on to other projects.
FAQ 3: Is Allegiant a Complete Ending to the Divergent Story?
No, Allegiant is not a complete ending. It only covers part of the final book and ends on a cliffhanger. This leaves many questions unanswered and leaves the fate of the characters unresolved, creating dissatisfaction among fans who were expecting a satisfying conclusion.
FAQ 4: Where Can I Watch the Divergent Movies?
The Divergent movies are available for streaming on various platforms, depending on your region. Common options include Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix (availability varies by country), and Vudu. You can also purchase or rent the films digitally through platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Microsoft Store. Physical copies (Blu-ray and DVD) are also widely available.
FAQ 5: Is It Necessary to Read the Books Before Watching the Movies?
While not strictly necessary, reading the books beforehand enhances the viewing experience. The books provide a richer understanding of the world, characters, and complex themes. The movies, due to time constraints, often simplify or omit certain plot points and character developments.
FAQ 6: How Accurate Are the Divergent Movies Compared to the Books?
The first film, Divergent, is the most faithful adaptation. Insurgent and Allegiant deviate more significantly from the source material, changing plot points, character arcs, and the overall tone of the story.
FAQ 7: What is the Correct Order to Watch the Divergent Movies?
The correct order to watch the Divergent movies is:
- Divergent (2014)
- Insurgent (2015)
- Allegiant (2016)
FAQ 8: Who Are the Main Actors in the Divergent Movies?
The main cast includes:
- Shailene Woodley as Tris Prior
- Theo James as Four (Tobias Eaton)
- Ansel Elgort as Caleb Prior
- Miles Teller as Peter Hayes
- Zoë Kravitz as Christina
- Kate Winslet as Jeanine Matthews
FAQ 9: What Are the Five Factions in Divergent?
The five factions in the Divergent society are:
- Abnegation (Selfless): Prioritizes the needs of others above their own.
- Amity (Peaceful): Values peace, kindness, and cooperation.
- Candor (Honest): Emphasizes truthfulness and transparency.
- Dauntless (Brave): Seeks courage, daring, and action.
- Erudite (Intelligent): Pursues knowledge, learning, and logic.
FAQ 10: What Does It Mean to Be Divergent?
A Divergent individual possesses aptitudes for multiple factions, indicating that they don’t fit neatly into any single category. This makes them a threat to the established social order, as they can think independently and resist control.
FAQ 11: What Was the Budget for Each Divergent Movie?
- Divergent: Approximately $85 million
- Insurgent: Approximately $110 million
- Allegiant: Approximately $110 million
FAQ 12: Are There Any Plans for a Divergent Reboot?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a Divergent reboot. However, given the enduring popularity of the books and the cyclical nature of Hollywood, a reboot remains a possibility in the future. The success of other young adult adaptations could pave the way for a fresh take on the Divergent series.
In conclusion, while the Divergent film series was cut short, the existing three movies offer a glimpse into the dystopian world created by Veronica Roth. Understanding the reasons behind the cancellation and exploring the nuances of the adaptations enhances the overall experience for fans. While Ascendant remains a lost chapter, the legacy of Divergent continues to resonate with audiences captivated by its themes of identity, courage, and rebellion.