The Master Runner engulfs the audience in the world, full of anxiety and rushing adrenaline, filled with that sense of an unknown dystopia where your survival depends on solving the mystery of the maze. As soon as Thomas becomes conscious without any memory in the Glade the tone of the film is gritty, but the pace is fierce, and it draws you to the thrilling piece of secrets and peril. The main feature is visually the sweeping images of the maze and the dark scenes in the night that enhance a feeling of dread and wonder, so every discovery is essential. The sound design helps build tension to the level of suspense and its manipulation of the production design amplifies a post-apocalyptic environment successfully making me hold to the edge of the seat.
In essence, the book talks about identity, hope and a rebellion. Their story of exploring the world with a bit of pain and loss in the background was also very beautiful as it stimulated the sense of curiosity and power. There was emotional depth to the twists of the thriller when the dynamics of the characters and their struggle to have hope in the face of desperation factored in to provide it. The indirect metaphors of the movie concerning control, memory and human nature, made me wonder how we sometimes find reasons to live, and how we hope in the worst of environments. The dialogue is minimal but effective and the scenes were well trimmed creating a sense of urgency and emotional attachment.
Although The Maze Runner manages to provide exciting action and meaningful themes, it is at times derivative of dystopian familiarity and rushed explanations. Other character arcs would use more developing. However, the combination of suspense, mystery, and emotional content of the movie made a rather strong impression on me, reminding me of human spirit enduring before the dark of the unknown. It is a moving story and it makes the audience speculate about hope, fidelity, and human curiosity.
