Original Director Discusses Divergent Reboot Possibilities a Decade After $765 Million Franchise Debut

Neil Burger, the original director of the Divergent film series, has recently addressed the potential for a reboot of the franchise, a decade after its initial release. Adapted from Veronica Roth’s best-selling novels, the series portrays a dystopian future in Chicago, where society is divided into factions based on dominant virtues. The story follows Beatrice Prior, portrayed by Shailene Woodley, a Divergent who uncovers significant truths about her seemingly structured world. Despite receiving a lukewarm reception from critics, the original film was a financial triumph in 2014, leading to two sequels helmed by Robert Schwentke. However, plans for further adaptations were seemingly shelved.

In a recent interview with Screen Rant, Burger reflected on the possibility of a Divergent reboot. He admitted that while the idea had not crossed his mind, it is plausible that Lionsgate could revisit the franchise in the future.

And they just kind of reboot everything. I have not thought about that, I’m sure that’s crossed Lionsgate’s mind to do it in a different way. I’m really proud of that movie, and I’m particularly proud of the cast that I got together for it, whether it be Shailene Woodley, or Theo James, or Miles Teller or Kate Winslet. Many of them, it was sort of an early, important role for them, and they were so fun to work with. So, it was great, I always will be part of that franchise, and am happy to be part of it in some way.

Implications for the Divergent Franchise

Feasibility of a Reboot

The initial success of Divergent was rooted in the widespread appeal for young adult (YA) dystopian adaptations, which also catapulted franchises like The Hunger Games and The Maze Runner to fame. However, the series struggled to maintain momentum, particularly with the lackluster reception of Insurgent and Allegiant. Even with a talented cast including Theo James, Zoë Kravitz, and Kate Winslet, the sequels failed to ignite the same enthusiasm as their predecessor, culminating in the cancellation of a planned fourth installment that was set to transition to a television format.

The decline in popularity is underscored by audience response metrics on Rotten Tomatoes and disappointing box office results for Allegiant, which raised questions about the viability of a reboot. Nonetheless, if Lionsgate were to implement significant revisions—particularly in how the futuristic landscape is depicted and the narrative arc is structured—a revival could be achievable. As Burger suggested, exploring fresh interpretations of the source material for a television format might present a compelling, cost-effective solution.

Following its release in 2016, Allegiant registered the franchise’s lowest rating on the RT Popcornmeter at just 41%, obtaining a global gross of $179.2 million.

Our Perspective on a Possible Divergent Reboot

Potential for a Reboot

Shailene Woodley as Tris looking annoyed in Divergent Series Allegiant

While the Divergent films may not have thrived in theaters, translating the novels into a series format could provide the flexibility needed for a comprehensive adaptation. Given the prior popularity of the franchise, a well-executed television series could capture the attention of both old fans and new viewers. Lionsgate has successfully tapped into the ongoing interest in the YA genre, especially with their recent ventures into prequels for The Hunger Games. This suggests there’s still a market for such narratives; with the lessons learned from previous adaptations, a thoughtfully crafted reboot could revitalize the Divergent brand.

Source: Screen Rant

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