‘Maze Runner’ full of twists, turns

On Oct. 11, I decided to attend the movie “Maze Runner” with a friend at the Chadron theater. We arrived semi-early, but assumed it would be slow because it was the matinee on a Sunday.

Our theory was proved incorrect; I think everyone in Chadron attempted to see a movie that day. This movie in particular must have been a popular choice, because almost every seat in the upstairs theater was occupied.

Even with our less-than-perfect situation, the movie itself was really good and could be considered one of the best to premiere this year. It was no wonder everyone else also wanted to see it.

I knew it was based off a book series that had high rankings, and I expected it to be good, but without prior knowledge of the plot I had no idea what would take place.

It had a Hunger Games feel to it: full of suspense, action, and twists that kept you on your toes. Throughout the movie, I was on the edge of my seat, anxiety washing over me, waiting to see what would happen next.

The movie opens with a boy named Thomas emerging in a foreign world. He is scared and confused without any memory of his past or how he got there. Like the others stuck in this place, barricaded inside a maze, he has to learn to work together with the others to maintain the lifestyle those before him had created.

Thomas however is not content with following the rules of the tribe and his curiosity overcomes him about why all these boys are still trapped and doing nothing about it. His memory also slowly returns, and unlike the others he begins to realize why they are there and begins to plan their escape.

This does not come without animosity from others in the group when they begin realizing the terrors of the maze are increasing as Thomas keeps pressing for answers. Also many become concerned with his actions when they realize there is only one final recruit placed in the maze, and that it is a woman.

Through trial and error and the ability to remain confident in his plan, he leads the others; those willing to follow, out of the maze.

This movie has hidden meanings relatable to real life situations. Many of us continue to go through the motions, wanting to just finish school or follow what everyone else chooses to do. But like Thomas, some of the greatest rewards come from the risks we take.

It is too easy following the leader instead of becoming one. I think we miss out on many opportunities presented our way because we do not want to break out of the mould and go for those things. I think that is why I related so well with this movie. I should not let others choose the path I take, and I do not want to only follow the easy road.

Even with all I have told you about this movie, there are many key details I intentionally left out so that you can attend this film and create your own opinions of it. Trust me when I say this: if you did not read the books, you will not be able to predict the outcome, and I think that is the best part.