Kids may find it exciting and new. Over-35's will find it worn out and tiresome

Rating: 5/10 (22 September 2014)

Didn't read the books. I did read The Hunger Games, and enjoyed books and movies. This one had its great moments, but overall fell a little flat for me - but I think that's an age issue. A generational problem. Not that I am too old to appreciate rebellion and questioning authority, but rather because I've seen all the "Maze" tropes a hundred times before.
Recycling old tropes isn't a bad thing, nor am I implying it's some kind of art crime! Rather, I am just noting that anyone over 35 may find it a bit old hat and even tired by now??? I'd have to add books to the list of "The Maze" forerunners - Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World," Michael Creighton books, and others I can't recall now. And all the "Mad Max" movies - "Logan's Run," "Lathe of Heaven," and of course "Lord of the Flies." Even 1990's fare such as "Water World" and "The Postman" echo a bit here. And other movies I can't remember. Add the iconoclastic vibe, taking down The Man and The Establishment, and unethical experimentation and manipulation by The-Powers-That-Be, and you might already be wearied of "The Maze" before you even get to the cinema.
In some ways "The Maze" has a trick ending, and relies too much of corny plot twists - "Surprise!" wears thin. I could imagine that once someone knew the trick ending, the movie would be unwatchable. It would be way too silly, way too tedious and dull. Virtually unendurable to sit through. That's never a good sign for a movie.
Katniss - she still holds interest, together with the whole Panem bunch for me!!! So I am not "anti" anything. I just want a newer, fresher approach is all. If you're young - and this is your first exposure to these themes - go see "The Maze" and go nuts and enjoy yourself! If you're a grown-up - don't expect anything new or fresh, or startling. It just isn't there.