Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ray Stevenson, Kate Winslet, Jai Courtney, Maggie Q, Miles Teller
Director: Neil Burger
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Lionsgate
Release Date: August 5, 2014
Run Time: 139 minutes
Film: 2 out of 5 stars
Blu-ray: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
When I saw the trailer for “Divergent”, it is just one of those films that right away I knew I was going to hate. I understand that I am not the targeted audience for this film but I did read (or at least attempt to start reading) the book, which I didn’t dig either. “Divergent” just takes way too long to get started and then by the time it gets some speed, it stalls out quickly. With all the hype I was expecting something epic but was left yawning more than sitting on the edge of my seat. If you adore films like “Twilight” and “The Hunger Games” then you should definitely enjoy this film. I don’t and I certainly didn’t enjoy this.
Official Premise: Divergent is set in a future world where society has been divided into five distinct factions. But Tris (Woodley) will never fit into any one group-she is Divergent, and what makes her different makes her dangerous. Targeted by a faction leader determined to eliminate all Divergents, Tris turns to the one person she believes she can trust: Four (James), an instructor for the militant Dauntless faction, and a man full of dark secrets. Together, Tris and Four uncover a mind-bending conspiracy that will put their courage to the ultimate test and forever link their destinies.
Despite for my dislike for the film, it does come with a solid AV presentation. The 1080p transfer in presented with an 2.40:1 aspect ratio. It looks quite amazing for this picture quality, which is sharp and super clear. The DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 is also quite impressive. It really gives this film a very big feel. The sound effects sound great and are well balance for this surround track.
Special features are ok for this release but nothing screaming Blockbuster. There are two audio commentary tracks. The first with Director Neil Burger, which is a bit of a bore. The next is with Producers Lucy Fisher and Douglas Wick, which is a little better. “Bringing Divergent To Life” is a solid set of four featurettes, running over 45 minutes. “Faction Before Blood” looks into the faction systems. Lastly there are some deleted scenes, a music video and a marketing gallery included.