The Maze Runner is a thrilling science fiction movie that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where a group of boys is trapped in a mysterious and ever-changing maze. The movie is based on the popular young adult novel of the same name by James Dashner and is the first installment in the Maze Runner film series.
The main character of the movie is Thomas, played by Dylan O'Brien, who wakes up in a dark lift with no memory of his past, except for his first name. When the lift opens, Thomas finds himself in a vast field known as the Glade, surrounded by towering stone walls and a group of boys who have also been sent there with no memory of their past. The boys have formed a society and have given themselves roles to survive in the Glade, with some farming and others acting as guards.
Thomas soon learns that the Glade is not a safe haven, but rather a dead-end, and the only way out is through the maze that surrounds it. A group of boys, known as "runners," explore the maze during the day to map it, as it changes every night. When Thomas arrives, he is determined to join the runners and find a way out of the maze. However, the maze holds many dangers, including mechanical beasts known as Grievers. Thomas and the other runners must use their wits and courage to navigate the maze and uncover the secrets that lie within. Along the way, Thomas forms a close bond with Teresa Agnes, played by Kaya Scodelario, who arrives in the Glade just as Thomas starts to question the true nature of their reality. The Maze Runner is a suspenseful and action-packed movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Main Cast of The Maze Runner
Dylan O'Brien
Thomas
Dylan O'Brien delivers a compelling and dynamic performance as Thomas in "The Maze Runner," effectively capturing the essence of a young man thrust into a harrowing and enigmatic world. From the moment he emerges disoriented from the elevator into the Glade, O'Brien's portrayal exudes a mix of raw vulnerability and fierce determination, skillfully navigating the character's rapid evolution from a confused newcomer to a decisive leader. His expressive eyes and nuanced reactions convey the depth of Thomas's internal struggles and his relentless drive to understand the labyrinth's secrets. O'Brien's physicality brings a visceral energy to the action sequences, while his interactions with the other Gladers highlight his ability to foster camaraderie on screen. His performance is a significant factor in grounding the fantastical elements of the story, allowing audiences to connect with Thomas's emotional journey and root for him as he confronts the formidable challenges posed by the Maze.
Kaya Scodelario
Teresa Agnes
Kaya Scodelario delivered a compelling performance as Teresa Agnes in "The Maze Runner," a pivotal character in the film adaptation of James Dashner's young adult dystopian novel. As the only female Glader initially, Teresa's mysterious arrival in the all-male dominated Glade setting immediately brings a dynamic shift to the group's dynamics. Scodelario portrays Teresa with a nuanced blend of vulnerability and inner strength, effectively capturing the character's struggle to understand her role in the enigmatic maze and her connection to the other characters, especially the protagonist, Thomas, played by Dylan O'Brien. Her performance is marked by a palpable chemistry with the cast and an ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety. Scodelario's Teresa is not just a love interest but a key player in the unfolding narrative, showcasing intelligence, determination, and a sense of moral conflict as she navigates the treacherous world they inhabit. Her portrayal adds significant depth to the ensemble, making Teresa a memorable character in the franchise and highlighting Scodelario's range as a young actress.
Aml Ameen
Alby
Aml Ameen's portrayal of Alby in "The Maze Runner" is a standout performance that brings depth and complexity to the character, who serves as the second-in-command of the Glade and a mentor to the protagonist, Thomas. Ameen captures Alby's leadership qualities with a nuanced balance of sternness and empathy, effectively conveying the character's struggle to maintain order in a chaotic, ever-changing environment. His performance is marked by a palpable intensity, particularly in scenes where Alby grapples with the dangers of the Maze and the encroaching threat of the Grievers. Ameen's Alby is both a symbol of resilience and a cautionary figure, whose experiences and hardened exterior mask a deep-seated fear of the unknown. His interactions with the rest of the Gladers highlight the burdens of leadership and the sacrifices required to protect one's community, making his character's journey one of the most compelling arcs in the film. Ameen's ability to bring authenticity and emotional resonance to Alby significantly contributes to the film's tense atmosphere and the audience's investment in the Gladers' plight.
Thomas Brodie-Sangster
Newt
Thomas Brodie-Sangster's portrayal of Newt in "The Maze Runner" is a standout performance that brings depth and complexity to the character. As Newt, Brodie-Sangster embodies the role of the second-in-command in the Glade, a makeshift society of boys trapped in a mysterious, ever-changing maze. His character is the heart of the group, often serving as the voice of reason and the emotional anchor for the protagonist, Thomas. Brodie-Sangster captures Newt's internal struggle between hope and despair, as he grapples with the reality of their situation while maintaining a sense of responsibility for his fellow Gladers. His performance is marked by a nuanced balance of warmth, authority, and vulnerability, which endears Newt to the audience and provides a compelling contrast to the more aggressive and survival-driven personalities within the film. Brodie-Sangster's ability to convey Newt's underlying kindness, intelligence, and quiet leadership adds layers to the film's exploration of loyalty, friendship, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Ki Hong Lee
Minho
Ki Hong Lee's portrayal of Minho in "The Maze Runner" is a standout performance that brings a compelling mix of strength and vulnerability to the screen. As the determined and resourceful leader of the Glade's Runners, Lee captures Minho's natural leadership and unwavering courage, making him an instant fan favorite. His physicality and agility are evident as he navigates the treacherous maze with a sense of urgency and intelligence. Lee's performance is not just about brawn, however; he also conveys Minho's internal struggle and the weight of responsibility he carries for the safety of his group. His interactions with the other characters, particularly his friendship with Thomas (Dylan O'Brien), showcase a deep camaraderie and trust that anchor the ensemble cast. Ki Hong Lee's Minho is a character defined by his resilience and loyalty, and Lee's nuanced depiction adds significant depth to the dystopian world of "The Maze Runner."
Will Poulter
Gally
Will Poulter's portrayal of Gally in the 2014 film adaptation of James Dashner's "The Maze Runner" is a standout performance that brings depth and complexity to the character. Gally, initially introduced as an antagonist within the Glade, is a formidable presence, often clashing with the protagonist, Thomas. Poulter skillfully navigates the character's evolution from a tough, authoritative figure, who is fiercely protective of the status quo, to a more nuanced individual grappling with the revelations of their dystopian reality. His performance is physically imposing, yet Poulter manages to convey the underlying fear and desperation that motivate Gally's actions. The actor's ability to humanize a character that could easily be reduced to a stock villain is commendable, as he brings a raw intensity to Gally's interactions and a palpable sense of confliction as the character confronts the harsh truths of their existence. Poulter's performance is a testament to his range as an actor, adding layers to the film's tense and thrilling narrative.
Secondary Cast of The Maze Runner
Michael Deville
Glader
Dylan Gaspard
Glader
Cory Gooding
Glader
Dustin Guitreau
Glader
Tyler Harrison
Glader
Landon Hazel
Glader
Gary Hood
Glader
Nick Killebrew
Glader
John Langston
Glader
Chad Martinez
Glader
Lester Millet
Glader
Sawyer Pierce
Glader
Weston Rachal
Glader
Johnny Stockwell
Glader
SanChavis Torns
Glader
Lane Westerhaus
Glader
Gentry Williams
Glader
Duane Cothren
Conference Room Parent (uncredited)
James Dashner
Lab Tech (uncredited)
Darryl Harvey
Maze Control Room Supervisor / EMT (uncredited)
Janet L'Aube
Lab Scientist (uncredited)
Zach Nichols
Glader (uncredited)
Andrew Varenhorst
Patient Zero (uncredited)
Jeff Wiesen
Glader (uncredited)
Adrian Acosta
Glader (uncredited)
Jacob Deville
Dan (uncredited)
Sheldon Maurer
Glader (uncredited)
Seth Nichols
Lab tech Student (uncredited) , Glader (uncredited)
Gustavo I. Ortiz
Rebel Soldier (uncredited)
McKenna Pippen
Lab Tech Student (uncredited)
Nicolas Stan
Child (uncredited)
Tony Vo
Glader (uncredited)
Kin-Lam Chan
Glader (Jim) (uncredited)
Crew of The Maze Runner
Full backstage crew list →- Released on September 10, 2014
- Part of the The Maze Runner Collection
