It was a popular time for franchises in the late 2000s and early 2010s. Or, more specifically, franchises based on young adult novels. Now one such franchise starter – a film released in 2014 – is trending on Netflix. Interestingly, however, it’s also a film that’s been critically panned since its release.
The film was followed by two sequels, both of which were also based on other entries of the same literary series. While the first two films were success at the box office despite their mixed-to-negative reactions, the third film was a financial failure altogether.
Now, years later, it looks like the original franchise starter is a success on Netflix. Quite a feat after a decade has passed since its release. However, Netflix users are apparently interested enough to help the film reach the number six spot.
The film is none other than 2014’s Divergent which starred Shailene Woodley. Although the film always received mixed-to-negative responses from fans and critics, viewers always seem pleased by Woodley’s performance. She returned for the film’s two sequels which seemed to always be a highlight of the franchise for viewers. Given the third film’s failure at the box office, however, and Woodley moving on from the franchise – it seems unlikely a fourth film will ever come to fruition.
Fortunately, it looks like the original Divergent movie is receiving some newfound praise as a result. Although it will likely never be considered a classic, or even as successful as other adaptations at the time like the Harry Potter sequels or The Hunger Games, perhaps it will still find success as a cult classic.
Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates regarding the latest trending titles on Netflix and other such streaming services. For now, subscribers can check out Divergent and see if the film is worth reassessing and if it deserves the sudden resurgence it’s receiving on streaming.