'Divergent' Updates: A 'Divergent' TV Series After 'Ascendant'? What Are Shailene Woodley's Thoughts?
Having failed to attain the success of "The Hunger Games," box-office wise with the third installment of the Divergence series "Allegiant," Lionsgate earlier this year indicated that they would forego the release of the fourth film "Ascendant" (June 9, 2017) and would instead spin it as a television series.
"Ascendant" would debut as a movie, thereafter becoming a TV series for the small screen that would follow what will happen after Tris Prior's (Shailene Woodley) story comes to a close in the movies. Some have argued that this attempt to revive the film series, by Lionsgate, makes no sense as the main problem is with the story being told, not its format. Veronica Roth's book series set in a dystopian future was a commercial success upon being published, with many fans praising the rich storyline and strong characters.
According to Movies News Guide, upon being turned into a film however, much of the crucial elements from the story was lost in favor of cool stunts and special effects. The initial film was a success, so to was the second one. By the third film interest had waned.
Some fans argue that had the films been launched as a television series from the beginning, things would have been different. However, thisis not the case. Indeed, by their attempts to convert the final film into a TV series, Lionsgate may lose the following of their loyal fans who had grown to enjoy the annual installations.
In fact, according to a report by ComingS Soon, in an interview with Screen Rant, actress Shailene Woodley reported that she may have doubts about appearing on the series as Tris. "Last I heard they were trying to make it into a television show," stated Woodley. "I didn't sign up to be in a television show. Out of respect to the studio and everyone involved, they may have changed their mind and may be doing something different, but I'm not necessarily interested in doing a television show."
While it's still not a definitive no-go, it may indicate that Woodley is uncertain of her future with the series. In addition Angel Elgort, Theo James, Miles Teller, remain unconfirmed. Though it is likely that they will return for "Ascendant."
Despite the fact that "Allegiant" received low box office rates last summer, it must be remembered that it was the first part in a two-part story. Even the famous Twilight Saga: "Breaking Dawn Part 1" was something of a failure compared to the previous film "Eclipse" only to experience a resurgence in popularity with the release of "Breaking Dawn Part 2."
As Ascendant is the conclusion to the Divergence saga, Lionsgate may find that fans of both the books and films flocking to cinemas upon its premier.