Introduction:
If you loved The Maze Runner for its gripping action, thrilling survival scenarios, and its young, determined characters, then you’re in for a treat. The Maze Runner brought the dystopian genre into the spotlight, combining suspense with emotional depth as a group of teens navigates a deadly maze. For those seeking similar adventures that delve into survival, complex relationships, and intense mysteries, here are 15 exciting movies that mirror the elements of The Maze Runner. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed sequences, emotional tension, or characters finding themselves in hostile worlds, these films, including movies like The Maze Runner and movies like Lie With Me, will not disappoint.
1. Divergent (2014)
Set in a dystopian future, Divergent follows Beatrice “Tris” Prior as she discovers she’s part of a dangerous faction that doesn’t fit into society’s prescribed roles. Much like The Maze Runner, this film blends high-stakes action with a rebellion against a controlling government. Tris’ journey to discover her identity while navigating an oppressive society mirrors the survival challenges seen in The Maze Runner, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
2. The Hunger Games (2012)
This movie, based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling novel, follows Katniss Everdeen as she competes in a televised fight to the death. Like The Maze Runner, The Hunger Games is set in a dystopian future where survival is the ultimate challenge. The film also delves deeply into themes of sacrifice, friendship, and rebellion, with a strong-willed female protagonist facing insurmountable odds in a brutal society. For fans of action, drama, and heart-pounding moments, The Hunger Games delivers in spades.
3. The Giver (2014)
The Giver transports audiences into a seemingly perfect, controlled society where emotions are suppressed and everyone follows the same rules. When Jonas, a young boy, begins to receive memories of the past, he realizes the true cost of a perfectly organized world. Much like The Maze Runner, The Giver explores a dystopian setting where characters must navigate an oppressive system to find freedom and uncover buried truths.
4. The 5th Wave (2016)
When Earth is invaded by aliens in The 5th Wave, the world is thrown into chaos. Cassie Sullivan, one of the last survivors, must evade both the alien invaders and human forces. Similar to The Maze Runner, this film explores survival in a hostile environment and the relationships that form in the aftermath of a world-changing event. With plenty of action and emotional intensity, The 5th Wave is a thrilling ride.
5. Ready Player One (2018)
Set in a dystopian future where people escape their bleak reality by immersing themselves in a virtual world called the OASIS, Ready Player One follows Wade Watts as he embarks on a quest to find a hidden Easter egg that will change his life. Like The Maze Runner, the film is packed with action, suspense, and a journey of self-discovery. Both movies also tackle themes of rebellion against a controlling force, making this an exciting choice for fans of intense, futuristic thrillers.
6. The Divergent Series: Insurgent (2015)
The sequel to Divergent, Insurgent picks up where the first film left off, with Tris and her allies trying to resist the tyranny of a power-hungry leader. As the characters try to navigate a city torn apart by civil war, they face more challenges than ever. Insurgent continues the thrilling action and suspenseful atmosphere established in The Maze Runner, offering intense conflict, betrayal, and survival at its core.
7. The Darkest Minds (2018)
In a world where a mysterious disease has killed most of the children in America, the survivors develop dangerous powers. The Darkest Minds follows Ruby, a teenager who must learn to harness her abilities while being hunted by the government. Similar to The Maze Runner, the movie deals with themes of survival, resistance, and the quest for freedom in a dystopian society.
8. Battle Royale (2000)
This Japanese cult classic introduces a group of high school students forced to participate in a deadly game where only one can survive. Battle Royale is a brutal commentary on survival and the lengths people will go to in extreme circumstances. Much like The Maze Runner, it combines intense action with emotional tension as characters struggle to maintain their humanity amidst a violent competition.
9. The Island (2005)
In The Island, two residents of a futuristic, isolated colony learn the shocking truth about their existence and escape to the outside world. Like The Maze Runner, the film features characters attempting to survive while discovering the truth about their manipulated reality. Both movies delve into themes of control, freedom, and the discovery of one’s purpose in a world where survival is uncertain.
10. Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015)
The second installment in The Maze Runner series, The Scorch Trials picks up after Thomas and his friends escape the maze, only to face an even greater challenge: navigating a desolate world filled with dangerous creatures and a terrifying organization. Much like the first film, it’s packed with thrilling action, high stakes, and intense emotional moments, making it a perfect continuation for fans of the original.
11. The Road (2009)
In The Road, a father and his young son navigate a post-apocalyptic world where survival is nearly impossible. The movie, based on Cormac McCarthy’s novel, explores themes of love, sacrifice, and hope amidst the bleakest of circumstances. Much like The Maze Runner, The Road emphasizes survival against overwhelming odds, though with a much more somber tone.
12. In Time (2011)
In a future society where time is the ultimate currency, people must work to earn time to live. When Will Salas is given a large sum of time, he goes on the run, fighting against a corrupt system that controls the populace’s lifespan. In Time shares similarities with The Maze Runner in its exploration of a dystopian world and characters struggling to break free from the systems that oppress them.
13. The Host (2013)
In a world where Earth has been overtaken by alien beings who possess human bodies, Melanie Stryder must fight to keep her humanity intact. The Host, based on Stephenie Meyer’s novel, features themes of survival, resistance, and the strength of human spirit, much like The Maze Runner. Both films deal with characters navigating a hostile world while trying to retain their humanity.
14. I Am Legend (2007)
In I Am Legend, Robert Neville is one of the last humans alive in New York City after a man-made virus wipes out most of humanity. Along with his dog, Neville must survive in a world overrun by mutated creatures. Like The Maze Runner, the film explores themes of survival and loneliness, with Neville seeking a cure and a way to save humanity from extinction.
15. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
The second film in The Hunger Games franchise, Catching Fire continues Katniss Everdeen’s struggle against a corrupt system. This sequel delves deeper into the rebellion against the Capitol, as Katniss and Peeta are once again thrust into a deadly competition. Much like The Maze Runner, Catching Fire features heart-stopping action, thrilling survival challenges, and the perseverance of its lead characters.
Conclusion:
If you’re a fan of The Maze Runner and its thrilling mix of dystopian survival, intense action, and emotionally charged moments, these 15 films are the perfect follow-up. From futuristic worlds and deadly games to emotional journeys and intense rebellion, these movies echo the same themes that made The Maze Runner so captivating. Whether you’re drawn to action-packed sequences, psychological twists, or characters fighting for survival, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in these films. With gripping plots and characters who must overcome incredible odds, these movies like The Maze Runner and movies like Lie With Me are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
