Maze Runner brings novel to life

New film sure to entertain book lovers and moviegoers alike

Josh Mesick

The only thing with more twists and turns than Wes Ball’s “The Maze Runner” is the labyrinth itself.

The movie begins with the protagonist, Thomas, waking up with no memories in an elevator shaft going up towards what looks to be a cell door. Once he hits the door, it opens up to a group of around two dozen teenage boys gathered around the elevators opening. Thomas comes to find himself trapped inside what’s known as the Glade, surrounded by a maze inhabited by foul creatures named “grievers”. After a series of unexpected events Thomas realizes it’s up to him to guide his companions out of the labyrinth.

The movie does a great job of creating an intense and intriguing storyline, which is only possible due to the actor’s gripping performance. MTV Teen Wolf’s Dylan O’Brien does a great job playing Thomas alongside Aml Ameen and Ki Hong Lee. The cast plays all the characters with a great amount of skill and maturity, something very impressive among a cast of completely young actors.

Ball does a great job of capturing the drama and intensity that is created in the novel “The Maze Runner”, written by James Dashner. Ball is able to do so using great cinematography and special effects making it feel as if you’re a part of the story alongside the characters.

The only issue with the film are the story differences between the movie and novel. I understand there are certain parts of the story that must be cut short since the book is quite long, but there are certain key elements to the plot that are simply not included.

So if you are new to “The Maze Runner” franchise or don’t mind alterations to the story I’d recommend grabbing a few friends and going to your local theatre to enjoy this block buster.