The second installment to the new Maze-Runner movie series was the highly anticipated Scorch Trials. But as I sat in the movie theater with my drink and popcorn, I was slightly disappointed. I felt like it was another Percy Jackson. Not only did the movie deviate from the book, it also lost the core meaning of an enduring betrayal to another generic sci-fi movie.

But, I won’t lie. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, as much you can enjoy one that is an adaptation of a book. The action-packed scenes coupled with the outstanding graphics made me feel exhilarated. It was a fun and easy watch. The movie was different from the book, but it was a good piece on it’s own. However, if you are the type to dislike such adaptations, I do not recommend this film.

What made the movie stand out was the cast. Dylan O’Brien, casted as Thomas, and Thomas Sangster, casted as Newt, were the two characters who outshone in the movie. Their raw sense of emotion came to life as each character faced the reality of their situation. As two different characters, I saw them bond and face their problems as mature people, not the teenage boys they ought to be.

Overall the movie was much more than the remake of the book; it was fun, thrilling, and basic. Anyone can keep up with what’s going on. It truly was a break from having to think about the purpose of a particular symbol.