Dystopian films have always fascinated me, and Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials, well, wasn’t that bad! Picking up right where the first film left off, Thomas and his friends are rescued from the sinister WICKED, only to face new threats in what’s supposed to be a safe haven. The film introduces us to new characters and a desolate world known as The Scorch.
The action sequences are relentless and well-executed. From fleeing zombie-like creatures infected with the “Flare” to navigating the harsh, unforgiving landscape of The Scorch, the film feels like a rollercoaster ride. Dylan O’Brien, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, and Ki Hong Lee deliver commendable performances, maintaining the chemistry that made the first film enjoyable. New additions like Aidan Gillen and Giancarlo Esposito add a fresh dynamic, with Esposito’s character Jorge standing out as particularly engaging.
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However, the film does have its flaws. It’s bigger than its predecessor, sometimes leading to a convoluted storyline. The mythology becomes dense, and the episodic structure makes it feel repetitive at times. Characters move from one bunker to another, facing one danger after the next, which becomes exhausting. Despite the constant movement, it often feels like the characters aren’t progressing much in terms of development or plot.
Character depth is another issue for me. While Thomas remains a likeable protagonist, he doesn’t undergo much growth throughout the film. His companions from the Glade also suffer from shallow characterization, with most of their dialogue revolving around survival commands. The film introduces many new characters but fails to develop them adequately, which I found frustrating because I wanted more substance and backstory.
TSHC Score: 6/10
Overall, Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials is a good sequel that offers some fun moments. It sets up the final installment well, despite its shortcomings in character development and narrative clarity. As a fan of the genre and the first film, I enjoyed the high-stakes action and the eerie, post-apocalyptic setting. While it’s not perfect, it’s a fun ride that left me eager for the conclusion.
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