15 Must-Watch Movies Like Divergent That You Need to See | Similar-List
If you enjoyed Divergent (2014) with its futuristic dystopian world, intense action, and complex characters, you’re in for a treat. The movie, based on Veronica Roth’s bestselling novel, explores a society divided into factions, where individuals are forced to conform to predefined roles—until a young woman named Tris (Shailene Woodley) dares to defy the system. With its gripping storyline and thrilling atmosphere, Divergent captivated audiences and became a staple in the genre of dystopian films. For those looking for more movies that feature intense action, strong characters, and rebellion against oppressive systems, this list of movies like Divergent will guide you through some of the best films in this category. If you also enjoyed movies like From Dusk Till Dawn, which blends genres in unexpected ways, you’ll find several picks here that balance dystopian themes with exciting action sequences and unforgettable twists.
1. The Hunger Games (2012)
The first film in the Hunger Games series, starring Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, shares a similar dystopian setting with Divergent. In a world where the wealthy Capitol controls the districts, the government forces children to fight to the death in a televised spectacle. Like Tris, Katniss is a strong, rebellious protagonist who challenges the system in order to protect her loved ones. Fans of movies like Divergent will appreciate the dark world-building, themes of survival, and the empowering journey of a young woman who becomes the symbol of revolution. With stunning action sequences and complex character arcs, The Hunger Games stands as one of the best movies in the dystopian genre.
2. The Maze Runner (2014)
The Maze Runner follows a group of teenagers who wake up in a mysterious maze with no memory of their past lives. As they work together to survive, they uncover shocking truths about their situation. This film, like Divergent, is set in a dystopian future where survival is the ultimate goal, and individuals must navigate a series of tests and challenges to find freedom. Both films feature a young protagonist who must defy the odds to uncover the truth behind a sinister system. With intense action and a gripping mystery at its core, The Maze Runner will appeal to fans of movies like Divergent.
3. Equilibrium (2002)
Equilibrium is a lesser-known gem in the dystopian genre, starring Christian Bale as a law enforcer in a future society where emotions are suppressed by a totalitarian regime. The film shares thematic similarities with Divergent, as it explores rebellion, individualism, and the consequences of living in a controlled, emotionally numb world. Much like Tris, Bale’s character must choose whether to conform to societal norms or risk everything to fight for freedom. The action scenes are intense, and the film offers a deep commentary on the dangers of oppressive governments, making it a must-watch for fans of movies like Divergent.
4. Snowpiercer (2013)
In Snowpiercer, a post-apocalyptic world exists on a train that never stops moving. The story follows the lower-class passengers who are forced to live in the tail section of the train and their fight to reach the front and overthrow the oppressive system. Like Divergent, the movie explores themes of class division, rebellion, and the fight for justice. The tension builds as the protagonist, Curtis (Chris Evans), leads the charge against an authoritarian system, all while the film delivers exhilarating action sequences. If you enjoy movies like Divergent, Snowpiercer’s social commentary and high-stakes action will keep you on the edge of your seat.
5. V for Vendetta (2005)
V for Vendetta presents a dystopian future where a totalitarian government rules the UK, controlling its citizens through fear and propaganda. The film follows the mysterious V, who is intent on overthrowing the corrupt government, and Evey (Natalie Portman), a young woman who becomes his ally. Much like Tris in Divergent, Evey evolves from a passive individual into someone who embraces rebellion. Both films share a focus on the power of individual resistance and the fight against oppressive systems. With memorable performances, a thought-provoking story, and a powerful message, V for Vendetta is a must-see for fans of movies like Divergent.
6. Ready Player One (2018)
Set in a near-future dystopian world where society escapes into a virtual reality universe called the OASIS, Ready Player One follows Wade Watts (Tye Sheridan) as he embarks on a quest to find a hidden treasure. The movie blends action, adventure, and social commentary, much like Divergent, as it explores the themes of escapism, control, and the fight for freedom in a divided society. The virtual world allows for unique and thrilling action sequences that appeal to fans of movies like Divergent, while also exploring the consequences of living in a world ruled by corporate giants.
7. The Giver (2014)
Based on Lois Lowry’s beloved novel, The Giver takes place in a seemingly perfect society where people suppress emotions to maintain order and harmony. Jonas (Brenton Thwaites) gets chosen to become the Receiver of Memory, a role that grants him access to memories of the past and ultimately leads him to question the rules of his world. Like Divergent, The Giver focuses on a young protagonist who discovers the truth about the society they live in and challenges its rigid structure. The themes of individuality and conformity resonate strongly with those who enjoy movies like Divergent.
8. Logan (2017)
Logan is a dark and gritty film set in the X-Men universe, where an aging Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) must protect a young girl with extraordinary abilities. Set in a dystopian future, much like Divergent, the film explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the fight for justice. The character-driven story delves deep into Wolverine’s emotional turmoil, making it a more personal and raw take on the typical dystopian narrative. Fans of movies like Divergent will appreciate the emotional depth, thrilling action, and exploration of the consequences of living in a fractured society.
9. The 5th Wave (2016)
In The 5th Wave, a young girl, Cassie (Chloë Grace Moretz), survives an alien invasion that has decimated much of the Earth’s population. As she navigates a hostile world filled with alien forces and distrustful humans, she must decide whether to trust others or continue her solitary fight for survival. Like Divergent, The 5th Wave features a young protagonist who must fight against a world that is rapidly changing, relying on her strength and intelligence to overcome the odds. The film’s action-packed sequences and exploration of survival and trust make it a great pick for fans of movies like Divergent.
10. In Time (2011)
Set in a future where time has become the currency and people stop aging at 25, In Time explores the divide between the rich, who can live forever, and the poor, who must struggle to survive. Justin Timberlake plays Will, a man who inherits a large amount of time, and fights to bring down the corrupt system that keeps the masses in a state of perpetual struggle.Like Divergent, In Time takes place in a dystopian world where the main character rises up against a totalitarian regime that controls the population through fear and inequality.
11. Children of Men (2006)
In a bleak, near-future world where infertility plagues humanity and society has collapsed, Theo (Clive Owen) steps up as a reluctant hero to protect the world’s only pregnant woman. This dystopian thriller, like Divergent, presents a society on the brink of collapse, where the protagonist must fight against a corrupt system in order to protect hope for the future. Fans of movies like Divergent will appreciate the intense action, the complex moral dilemmas, and the poignant narrative that explores themes of survival and humanity.
12. Allegiant (2016)
As the third installment of the Divergent series, Allegiant continues Tris’ journey as she and Tobias venture beyond the walls of their society to uncover the truth about the factions. The stakes rise even higher as they face new dangers, betrayals, and revelations. If you loved Divergent, the continuation of Tris’ story in Allegiant will provide more of the action, rebellion, and thrilling moments that made the original film so popular.
13. The Matrix (1999)
A groundbreaking classic, The Matrix explores a dystopian future where most of humanity is unknowingly trapped inside a simulated reality controlled by machines. Neo (Keanu Reeves), the protagonist, is awakened to the truth and must fight to free humanity from the machine overlords. The Matrix shares many thematic similarities with Divergent, such as the exploration of freedom, individuality, and the fight against a controlling system. Fans of movies like Divergent will find the action, philosophical questions, and dystopian world of The Matrix captivating.
14. Battle Royale (2000)
A controversial and intense Japanese film, Battle Royale follows a class of high school students who are forced by the government to participate in a deadly game where they must kill each other until only one remains. Like Divergent, Battle Royale explores the dehumanizing effects of authoritarian control and the fight for survival in a dystopian society. The brutal action and thought-provoking themes will appeal to fans of movies like Divergent who enjoy dark, intense films that explore the consequences of oppression.
15. I Am Legend (2007)
In a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has been wiped out by a virus, Robert Neville (Will Smith) is one of the last survivors. As he struggles to find a cure and survive in a desolate world, he must confront the emotional and physical toll of being the last hope for mankind. Like Divergent, I Am Legend features a lone hero who must challenge a seemingly hopeless world. With its gripping action, emotional depth, and survival themes, I Am Legend will resonate with fans of movies like Divergent.
If you loved Divergent and its fast-paced action, dystopian world-building, and strong protagonists, these 15 films will give you plenty more to enjoy. Each one takes you on a journey of survival, rebellion, and discovering the truth about oppressive societies, all while offering heart-pounding action and emotional depth. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed thrillers, emotional dramas, or films that explore powerful social commentary, these movies like Divergent and movies like From Dusk Till Dawn will keep you hooked from start to finish.
