The Maze Runner

The Maze Runner

Year: 2014

Runtime: 113 min

Language: English

Director: Wes Ball

ActionSci-FiMysteryThriller

In this gripping sci-fi thriller, Thomas awakens in a labyrinthine prison with no recollection of his life outside - only cryptic visions of a sinister organization. As he navigates treacherous alliances and ancient mysteries within the maze's walls, Thomas must unravel the enigma of his past to uncover his true purpose and escape the deadly trap that surrounds him.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Maze Runner (2014)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Maze Runner (2014). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events of the movie seem to take place in a dystopian future, characterized by a shattered civilization due to solar catastrophes and a global pandemic. The boys are unwitting participants in a survival experiment designed to test their abilities and resilience against a mysterious virus. This setting highlights themes of survival, memory, and the quest for identity in a world that has drastically changed.

Location

The Glade, The Maze

The Glade is a vast grassy area encircled by towering stone walls that serves as a refuge for the boys. Surrounded by The Maze, it is a place of both hope and danger, where the inhabitants strive to find an exit while contending with the looming threat of Grievers. The Maze itself is a complex labyrinth that changes its configuration each night, posing a deadly challenge for the Runners tasked with exploring it.

🏞️ Wilderness 🧱 Labyrinth

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:22

Main Characters – The Maze Runner (2014)
Meet the key characters of The Maze Runner (2014), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Thomas (Dylan O'Brien)

Thomas is the determined protagonist who awakens in The Glade with no memory of his past. He exhibits courage and resourcefulness, quickly adapting to the challenges of his new environment. As he uncovers the mysteries of the Maze, Thomas emerges as a natural leader, rallying the other boys to confront their fears and seek freedom.

👦 Protagonist 🦸‍♂️ Leader 🧠 Brave

Newt (Thomas Brodie-Sangster)

Newt serves as Alby’s right-hand man and a stabilizing force within the Glade. He is calm, pragmatic, and empathetic, often mediating conflicts among the boys. His leadership skills are highlighted when he promotes Thomas to a Runner, demonstrating his faith in Thomas's ability to lead them to safety.

👨‍⚖️ Second-in-command 🤝 Supportive

Gally (Will Poulter)

Gally is initially portrayed as an antagonistic figure, fiercely protective of the existing order within The Glade. His character grapples with jealousy and fear of change, making him an obstacle to Thomas's leadership. Despite his antagonistic tendencies, Gally exhibits complexity as he leads with conviction, ultimately driven by his own tragic past.

⚔️ Antagonist 👁️ Jealous 😡 Fearful

Teresa (Kaya Scodelario)

Teresa is the sole girl to arrive in The Glade and holds a mysterious connection to Thomas. Her presence brings crucial information and challenges established dynamics. Teresa’s strength and determination play a key role in the survival of the group, as she navigates her own memories and interactions with Thomas.

👩‍🎓 Intelligent 💪 Resourceful 🌀 Mysterious

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:22

Major Themes – The Maze Runner (2014)
Explore the central themes of The Maze Runner (2014), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧩 Survival

Survival is a predominant theme in 'The Maze Runner,' as the characters are constantly faced with life-or-death situations within the confines of The Maze. The Gladers work together to navigate challenges and decipher the mysteries of their environment, illustrating their resilience and determination. This theme is further underscored by acts of self-sacrifice, exposing the lengths they will go to for one another.

🔍 Memory

Memory plays a crucial role in shaping the characters' identities and their understanding of the Maze. Thomas, along with Teresa, gradually uncovers fragmented memories of their past, which connect them to the larger experiment orchestrated by WCKD. The struggle to reclaim these memories is not only vital for their escape but also symbolizes their search for a sense of self amidst chaos.

⚔️ Friendship

The bonds of friendship among the Gladers are essential for their survival and growth throughout the film. As they face immense danger together, loyalty and sacrifice emerge as key components of their relationships. The camaraderie helps them confront both external threats and internal conflicts, allowing them to unite for a common purpose against their captors.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:22

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