Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials

I've NEVER been hugely passionate about the Maze Runner franchise, but The Scorch Trials was a solid piece of entertainment. Yes, the story seemed a bit labored and confusing - things were still left frustratingly unanswered from the first installment - but with a relatively even pace, the movie went on gradually with a riveting intensity. This was that kind of movie that kept me on the edge of my seat and gave me a good adrenaline rush. It was incredibly absorbing and compelling thanks to an impressive mix of great direction, stunning cinematography and visuals, creative and masterful blocking, and some impeccably well-choreographed action sequences. The cast did better this time around, especially Dylan O' Brian who gave the perfect mix of physicality and charisma throughout the film. I could seriously rant about so many things about Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials - the story was clearly not it's strongest suite - but this was surprisingly compelling, and infuriatingly enjoyable jaunt despite the straightforward and cliched plot. No, this won't live forever as a shining example of its genre, but it's the best I could have hoped for. 8