Divergent (2014): A Deep Dive Into The Factions

Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of Divergent, the 2014 film that had everyone talking about factions, choices, and fighting for what you believe in. Based on Veronica Roth's bestselling young adult novel, this movie throws us into a dystopian Chicago where society is divided into five distinct factions: Abnegation (the selfless), Amity (the peaceful), Candor (the honest), Dauntless (the brave), and Erudite (the intelligent).

What is Divergent About?

At its core, Divergent is a coming-of-age story set against a backdrop of societal control and individual rebellion. The protagonist, Beatrice Prior, played by Shailene Woodley, grows up in Abnegation, the faction dedicated to selflessness and service to others. However, Beatrice feels like she doesn't quite fit in. The annual Choosing Ceremony is a pivotal moment where sixteen-year-olds must choose the faction they will dedicate their lives to. This decision isn't taken lightly; it determines their future, their community, and their very identity. Before the ceremony, teens undergo an aptitude test that simulates scenarios to determine which faction aligns best with their natural inclinations. When Beatrice takes the test, she receives an inconclusive result: she's Divergent, meaning she has aptitudes for multiple factions. This is a dangerous secret in this society, as Divergents are seen as a threat to the established order because they cannot be easily controlled.

Faced with this life-altering revelation, Beatrice makes a bold decision during the Choosing Ceremony. Instead of staying in Abnegation, she chooses Dauntless, the faction of the brave, known for their daring stunts and protective role. This choice marks the beginning of her transformation from the quiet, unassuming Beatrice to the fierce and independent Tris. Her journey in Dauntless is far from easy. She must undergo rigorous and often brutal training to prove her worth and secure her place in the faction. Along the way, she faces physical challenges, emotional trials, and the constant threat of being exposed as Divergent. The training sequences are intense, showcasing Tris's determination and resilience as she pushes herself to her limits. She forms alliances and friendships, most notably with Four, her enigmatic instructor, played by Theo James. Their relationship evolves from a mentor-student dynamic to a deep and complex connection, providing Tris with support and guidance as she navigates the treacherous landscape of Dauntless.

However, Tris's journey isn't just about physical strength and bravery; it's also about discovering her true self and understanding the implications of being Divergent. As she delves deeper into the secrets of the factions, she uncovers a sinister plot by the Erudite faction, led by the ruthless Jeanine Matthews (Kate Winslet), to overthrow Abnegation and seize control of the entire society. The Erudite believe that Abnegation is unfit to lead and that their own intellectual superiority justifies their claim to power. This power struggle sets the stage for a thrilling and action-packed conflict that forces Tris to confront her fears, embrace her Divergence, and fight for the people she cares about. Divergent explores themes of identity, free will, and the dangers of conformity. It questions the idea of a perfectly structured society and highlights the importance of individual thought and resistance against oppressive systems. Tris's journey is a testament to the power of choice and the courage it takes to defy expectations and stand up for what you believe in.

The Factions Explained

Okay, let's break down each faction a little more, because understanding them is key to getting the whole Divergent vibe. Each faction has its own distinct values, behaviors, and roles within society.

• Abnegation: These guys are all about selflessness. They prioritize the needs of others above their own and dedicate their lives to serving the community. They dress plainly, live modestly, and avoid any form of self-indulgence. In the film, we see them running the government and providing essential services. The problem? Their selflessness is sometimes seen as weakness, making them vulnerable to manipulation.
• Amity: Peace and love, man! Amity is all about harmony and cooperation. They're the farmers and caretakers of society, always striving to resolve conflicts peacefully and maintain a sense of community. Think of them as the hippies of the Divergent world. They value art, music, and all things that promote happiness and tranquility.
• Candor: Honesty is their only policy. Candor members value truth above all else, sometimes to a fault. They are the lawyers and judges of the society, ensuring that justice is served fairly and impartially. They are known for their bluntness and their inability to lie, which can sometimes lead to uncomfortable situations.
• Dauntless: These are the brave ones, the adrenaline junkies, the protectors. They're responsible for the security and defense of the city. Dauntless members are known for their daring stunts, their fearlessness, and their loyalty to each other. They're the ones you want on your side when things get tough.
• Erudite: Knowledge is power for these guys. Erudite members value intelligence and learning above all else. They are the scientists, researchers, and educators of society, constantly seeking to expand their understanding of the world. They believe that knowledge should be used to improve society, but their pursuit of knowledge can sometimes lead to arrogance and a disregard for ethical boundaries.

Why Divergent Resonated with Audiences

So, why did Divergent become such a hit? Well, for starters, it tapped into the popular dystopian trend that was all the rage at the time, thanks to the success of The Hunger Games. But it also offered something unique: a focus on identity and belonging. The idea of choosing your own path and defying societal expectations resonated with a lot of young adults who were also grappling with these issues in their own lives. The concept of factions provided a framework for exploring different values and beliefs, prompting viewers to consider what was most important to them. The film's action-packed sequences and thrilling plot kept audiences on the edge of their seats, while the romance between Tris and Four added an emotional layer that appealed to a wide range of viewers. The characters were relatable and well-developed, making it easy for audiences to connect with their struggles and triumphs. Shailene Woodley's portrayal of Tris was particularly praised for its authenticity and vulnerability, capturing the character's evolution from a timid girl to a strong and independent woman. Divergent also sparked conversations about important social issues such as conformity, control, and the importance of individuality. It challenged viewers to question the systems in place and to consider the consequences of blindly following authority.

The Legacy of Divergent

Okay, so Divergent wasn't exactly a critical darling, and the sequels didn't quite live up to the hype (we'll get to that in a sec), but it definitely left its mark. It solidified Shailene Woodley and Theo James as major stars and introduced a new generation to the dystopian genre. Plus, it got a whole bunch of people talking about factions, aptitude tests, and what it means to be brave, selfless, honest, peaceful, or intelligent. Even though the film series wasn't fully completed (the final movie was supposed to be a TV movie, but that never happened), the Divergent world continues to live on through the books and the fans who still debate the merits of each faction. It also paved the way for other YA adaptations, proving that there was a huge audience for stories about young people fighting for their freedom and finding their place in the world. The themes explored in Divergent, such as identity, choice, and resistance against oppression, remain relevant today, reminding us of the importance of questioning authority and standing up for what we believe in.

Sequels and What Could Have Been

Alright, let's be real: the Divergent sequels, Insurgent (2015) and Allegiant (2016), didn't quite capture the magic of the first film. While they continued the story of Tris and Four's fight against the Erudite and the corrupt system, they were often criticized for deviating from the source material and losing some of the nuance and depth of the characters. Insurgent focused more on action and special effects, while Allegiant introduced new factions and expanded the scope of the world, but ultimately felt convoluted and unsatisfying. The original plan was to split the final book, Allegiant, into two films, following the trend of other YA adaptations like Harry Potter and The Hunger Games. However, due to the declining box office performance of Allegiant, the studio decided to scrap the theatrical release of the fourth film and instead produce a TV movie that would wrap up the story. Unfortunately, this plan also fell through, leaving the Divergent series unfinished and disappointing fans who were eager to see the conclusion of Tris's journey. The unmade Ascendant would have explored the aftermath of the events in Allegiant, delving deeper into the secrets of the Bureau of Genetic Welfare and the true purpose of the factions. It would have also provided closure for the characters and resolved the conflicts that were left unresolved in the previous films. While it's disappointing that we never got to see the full conclusion of the Divergent series, the first film remains a memorable and thought-provoking entry in the dystopian genre, sparking conversations about identity, choice, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the hype, Divergent is a film that's worth checking out. It's a wild ride through a world of factions, choices, and rebellion, with a strong female lead and a compelling story. Just remember to go in with an open mind and enjoy the journey! And hey, even if the sequels weren't perfect, we'll always have that first movie to remind us of the power of Divergence. What faction would you choose?