Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials
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Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials is the 2015 dystopian science fiction sequel to The Maze Runner, continuing the story of Thomas and his fellow Gladers. The film follows their escape from the mysterious organization WCKD and their perilous journey across a desolate, sun-scorched landscape known as the Scorch, which is populated by dangerous, zombie-like humans called Cranks. The group seeks out a resistance movement while uncovering more about WCKD's true intentions and the deadly Flare virus. The movie is an action-packed installment, intensifying the threats and expanding the world, catering to a young adult audience interested in survival narratives and rebellion against oppressive systems.
Things to Consider
Violence
The film contains prolonged and intense sequences of violence, including numerous violent deaths, gun battles, and hand-to-hand combat. There are depictions of blood and gore, and the overall intensity is noted to be greater than its predecessor.
The movie features gunship-style helicopters and soldiers firing automatic weapons, killing groups of unarmed mutant humans ('Cranks'). During an attack on a civilian compound, a soldier explicitly states, 'Every last one of you will die,' before the compound explodes. Characters face brutal physical altercations, such as a man being repeatedly punched in the face until it is swollen, bruised, and bloody to extract information. Another instance involves Winston, who is scratched by a Crank, becomes infected, and is forced to shoot himself off-screen due to the worsening symptoms of the Flare virus.
Scary & Intense Content
The movie is described as highly intense and scary, incorporating elements typical of a horror film. It features disfigured, zombie-like creatures, frequent jump scares, and constant life-threatening situations, creating a continuously suspenseful and disturbing atmosphere.
Disrespect & Rebellion
A core theme of "Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials" is the rebellion of the youthful protagonists against the authoritative and manipulative organization known as WCKD. This involves overt defiance, escape attempts, and direct confrontation with adult figures in power.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
This movie is rated PG-13 by the MPAA primarily for extended sequences of violence and action, thematic elements, substance use, and language. While the official rating suggests suitability for ages 13 and up, parental reviews and educational outlets frequently recommend it for older teens, specifically 15 or 16+, due to its intense, disturbing, and scary content, including graphic violence and jump scares.
Good to Know
The film significantly diverges from the source material, the book 'The Scorch Trials,' leading to a different narrative and character arcs. Parents familiar with the books should be aware that the movie's portrayal of events and character development may not align with their expectations from the novels.
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