Movies Similar to Maze Runner: 20 Sci-fi Thrilling Superhits

Maze Runner is a full-action series that reflects science fiction stuff based on adventure and sensational scenes. Equally important, the series is the derivation of the Maze Runner novels that reflect the work of James Dashner author. The series has received a reasonable viewership and feedback from the audience. 

You can find similar movies like Maze Runner through common action features. In addition, all the described movies have a few characters other rather multiple characters. Overall, the movies have achieved different feedback from viewers across the world. Viewers can explore movies similar to Maze Runner through the described list available below.

20 Movies Similar to Maze Runner

You can enjoy movies similar to the Maze Runner by viewing the same plot and theme. It’s a complete package of entertainment for the movie buffs of all ages.

To enjoy the same plots and action movies like The Maze Runner, you should watch these movies. Overall, the theme reflects the best of stuff, which is common in all the films. There is a complete description of 20 movies available below. 

The Divergent (2014)

In the aftermath of a federal witness’s murder and the abduction of a renowned pop star, the lives of a police officer, a lawyer, and an assassin intersect, setting the stage for a complex and high-stakes drama filled with intrigue, danger, and unexpected alliances.

Tris Prior, embodied by Shailene Woodley, resides in a futuristic society partitioned into five distinct factions, each defined by unique values and beliefs. Upon coming of age, individuals face the pivotal choice of aligning themselves with a single faction, an irreversible decision with lifelong consequences.

As Tris grapples with the weight of her secret identity, she unwittingly becomes embroiled in a hidden conflict that imperils the lives of those she cherishes most. Amidst the gathering storm of impending War, Tris must navigate a precarious path, striving to shield her loved ones while wrestling with her own complex identity and the destiny that awaits her.

The Host (2006)

“The Host” 2006 is a South Korean monster film directed by the acclaimed Bong Joon-ho. The central plot revolves around a monstrous creature that kidnaps a man’s daughter, leading to his determined efforts to rescue her. The director drew inspiration from a local news article detailing the discovery of a deformed fish with an S-shaped spine in the Han River.

“The Host” generated significant anticipation following the success of Bong Joon-ho’s previous work, “Memories of Murder.” Upon its release in South Korea on July 27, 2006, the film graced unprecedented screens. By November 8, it had sold a remarkable 13 million tickets, establishing itself as the highest-grossing South Korean film at that time.

The Hunger Games (2012)

Once in North America, the gathering place of Panem maintains its hold on its 12 districts by forcing them each to select a boy and a girl, called Tributes, to compete in a nationally televised event called the Hunger Games. Each resident should observe the real fight until whoever resists well may survive. 

They found in District Twelve Compliment Everdeen, who has little to rely on, along with her hunting expertise where she must weigh survival against love. Overall, The Hunger Games reflects a similar plot to the movie like Maze Runner.

Days of Heaven (1978)

“Days of Heaven,” a 1978 American romantic period drama, marks the work of writer and director Terrence Malick. Set in 1916, it narrates the tale of Bill and Abby, two lovers who journey to the Texas Panhandle to work on a wealthy farmer’s crop harvest. Bill convinces Abby to participate in a deceptive scheme to claim the dying farmer’s fortune through a fabricated marriage.

This film represents Terrence Malick’s second feature, following “Badlands” in 1973. The production faced various challenges, including tight schedules during a shooting in Canada in 1976 and budgetary constraints. The editing process was notably protracted, taking two years due to difficulties in achieving a cohesive flow and scene assembly. The solution came in the form of improvised narration by teenager Linda Manz.

Over time, “Days of Heaven” has earned its place as one of the most revered films of its era, particularly celebrated for its cinematography. It consistently appears in lists of the greatest films ever made and was ranked at 49 in a 2015 BBC poll of the greatest American films.

The Village (2004)

“The Village” is a 2004 American period thriller film. The storyline revolves around an isolated village whose residents continuously fear mysterious creatures dwelling in the surrounding woods, worryingly referred to as “Those We Don’t Speak Of.” In the year 2004, ” Village,” also marketed as “M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village,” emerged as an American period thriller. This cinematic creation was a product of the multi-talented M. Night Shyamalan, who took on the roles of writer, producer, and director. 

Upon its release, “The Village” received a mixed critical reception, with many reviewers expressing disappointment in the film’s twist ending. Despite the divisive reviews, James Newton Howard’s musical score earned a nomination for Best Original Score at the 77th Academy Awards. Financially, the film found success by grossing $256.7 million worldwide, surpassing its $60 million production budget.

Upon its release, “The Village” garnered mixed reviews, with numerous critics voicing disappointment, particularly regarding the twist ending. However, the film’s musical score by James Newton Howard earned recognition with a nomination for Best Original Score at the 77th Academy Awards. 

Mortal Engines (2018)

“Mortal Engines,” a 2018 steampunk film, was directed by Christian Rivers and adapted from a screenplay by Fran Walsh, Peter Jackson, and Philippa Boyens. The movie draws inspiration from Philip Reeve’s 2001 novel of the same name. In this co-production, the film unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world where entire cities have been mechanized, mounted on wheels, and engaged in a practice known as municipal Darwinism. Notably, the movie’s universe diverges from that of the original books.

“Mortal Engines” had its world premiere in London on November 27, 2018. It was theatrically released in Australia and New Zealand on December 6, 2018, followed by a release in the United States on December 14, 2018. Critical reception for the film was mixed to negative, with some reviewers praising the visual effects and musical score while many criticized the direction, screenplay, and overall lack of personality. 

Cube (1997)

Cube (1997) is a science fiction movie that contains some horror elements as a feature production. For kind information, the movie is entitled with the name Cube due to the settings in the cubic industrial rooms. In addition, the feat element creates a sensation in the plot and completion. Moreover, the film got positive feedback and contrary remarks from the audience. 

The Mortal Instruments: City Of Bones (2013)

The Mortal Instruments is a film based on urban fantasy warfare with the demons who used to encounter them often. Besides, a teenager named Clary Fray knows she is persuaded by an angel who tries to prevent evil forces. Amazingly, the movie contains completely thrilling and exciting content full of sensational encounters. The movie includes some heart-beating scenes through vampires, demons, and supernatural creatures. Overall, the film delivers a real entertainment glance for the movie buffs. 

Labyrinth 1986

“Labyrinth,” a 1986 musical fantasy film directed by Jim Henson, had George Lucas as its executive producer. The movie draws inspiration from conceptual designs by Brian Froud and features a screenplay written by Terry Jones. Many of its characters are brought to life through puppets crafted by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. The film stars Jennifer Connelly in the role of 16-year-old Sarah and David Bowie as Jareth, the mysterious Goblin King.

In “Labyrinth,” Sarah embarks on a courageous quest to navigate a vast, otherworldly maze in order to rescue her infant half-brother, Toby, whom she unintentionally wished away from Jareth. This cinematic journey began as a collaboration between Henson and Froud following their prior work on “The Dark Crystal” in 1982. Various other writers made subsequent revisions and additions to the script. However, Terry Jones received the sole screenwriting credit for the film.

Battle Royale (2000)

“Battle Royale” is a 2000 Japanese action-thriller film directed by Kinji Fukasaku, with the screenplay written by his son, Kenta Fukasaku. The film is based on the contentious 1999 novel penned by Koushun Takami. The storyline revolves around a group of junior high school students who are forced into a deadly battle for survival by the Japanese authoritarian government.

Upon its release, “Battle Royale” sparked controversy and faced bans or exclusion from distribution in several countries. Toei Company, the film’s producer, refrained from selling it to any United States distributor for over a decade due to concerns about potential controversy and legal issues. It wasn’t until 2010 that Anchor Bay Films acquired the rights to release the film directly to video in the United States.

Oxygen (2021)

“Oxygen” is a 2021 French-language science fiction thriller film directed and produced by Alexandre Aja. Christie LeBlanc crafted the screenplay for the film. As a part of an French and American mutual collaboration, the movie features a talented cast of some renowned actors, including Mathieu Amalric, Melanie Laurent, and Malik Zidi.

“Oxygen” was made available to audiences through Netflix, with its release date set for May 12, 2021. Moreover, the movie is about a lady in a closed chamber with a completely robotic environment that replies to her queries. She does not know about her past, but the entangled system doesn’t let her escape until she knows everything.

The 5th Wave (2016)

The 5th Wave is a 2016 American science fiction action film directed by J Blakeson, with a screenplay by Susannah Grant, Jeff Pinkner, and Akiva Goldsman. The plot of the movie is a complete thriller that revolves around a lady who tries to survive along with her brother and belongings.

In addition, she tries to protect herself against the mysterious interference of supernatural force aliens who enter the human species. Moreover, the film earned mix up of reviews and feedback by the audience with a reasonable gross profit.

The Giver (2014)

“The Giver” unfolds through the perspective of Jonas, an eleven-year-old boy residing in a futuristic society that has exactly eradicated all forms of pain, fear, War, and hatred. Politeness is the standard, and choice is virtually nonexistent. At the age of twelve, each community member is assigned a vocation that aligns with their abilities and interests.

Within this society, individuals can apply for and receive compatible life partners, and every couple is allotted precisely two children. These children are brought into the world by Birthmothers who never get to see them. During their first year of life, these infants, known as “new children,” reside in a Nurturing Center alongside other babies born during the same year.

As the children mature, family units dissolve, and adults begin cohabiting with Childless Adults until they reach an age where they can no longer contribute to society effectively. At this point, they are cared for in the House of the Old until they are ultimately “released” from the community. While “release” signifies death within this society, it is never explicitly described in such terms. 

Oblivion (2013)

“Oblivion,” is a 2013 American post-World War action-adventure film that was both produced and directed by Joseph Kosinski. Karl Gajdusek and Michael deBruyn penned the screenplay for the film. The movie stars Tom Cruise in the lead role and features a notable supporting cast, including Andrea, Morgan Freeman, Melissa Leo, Nikolaj, and Olga Kurylenko.

The narrative of “Oblivion” is based on Kosinski’s unpublished graphic novel of the same name and pays homage to sci-fi of the 1970s. The story unfolds on a desolate Earth wasted by an alien war. The central character, a maintenance technician nearing the completion of his mission, encounters a woman who has survived a spaceship crash. This encounter leads him to question the purpose of his mission and unearth the truth about the War.

The film made its premiere in Buenos Aires on March 26, 2013, followed by a theatrical release by Universal Pictures on April 19 of the same year. “Oblivion” achieved global box office earnings of $286 million while being produced with a budget of $120 million. Critically, the film garnered mixed reviews from movie critics.

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

As Earth faces a solid assault from seemingly unbeatable space beings, no military force on the planet can withstand their difficult might. Assigned to a perilous mission, Maj. William Cage (played by Tom Cruise), an officer devoid of combat experience, finds himself on a suicide mission. In a cruel twist of fate, Cage meets his demise within moments, only to be thrust into a confusing time loop.

Caught in this relentless cycle, Cage repeatedly endures the same upsetting battle, each rehearsal concluding with his demise. However, with each repetition, Cage’s combat prowess steadily improves. Alongside a fellow warrior, they inch closer to separating the secrets of the alien invaders and achieving victory.

Bird Box (2018)

“Bird Box” is a 2018 American horror thriller film by director Susanne Bier, penned by Eric Heisserer. The movie is based on the 2014 novel of the same name by Josh Malerman. The narrative centres around Malorie Hayes, portrayed by Sandra Bullock, who endeavours to safeguard herself and two children from mysterious entities that compel individuals who gaze upon them to commit suicide.

The film had its global debut at the AFI Fest on November 12, 2018, followed by a limited theatrical release on December 14 of the same year. Subsequently, it became available for streaming worldwide on Netflix starting December 21, 2018. While “Bird Box” garnered mixed reviews from critics, it achieved the distinction of becoming the most-watched film on Netflix within a mere 28 days of its release, as reported by Netflix. Last, a spin-off sequel titled “Bird Box Barcelona” was released on Netflix on July 14, 2023.

A Quiet Place (2018)

A Quiet Place (2018) is a horror fiction movie containing fear elements due to the mysterious things happening in the surroundings. Furthermore, the plot is based on a father and mother who try to protect their children from strange creatures. The movie theme is “If they hear you, they hunt you”, which is quite horrible. In addition, when children or characters open their mouths, they become prey to supernatural creatures. So, the parents make their children silent against the screams to avoid them from trouble.

Never Let Me Go (2010)

“Never Let Me Go,” a 2011 British romantic tragedy film, is an adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2005 novel of the same title. The movie was brought to life under the direction of Mark Romanek, with a screenplay penned by Alex Garland. 

Before the book’s release, Garland had already approached Andrew Macdonald and Allon Reich to explore the possibility of adapting it into a film. He went on to draft a 96-page script. Casting proved to be a challenge, particularly in finding the right actress to portray Kathy. Ultimately, Carey Mulligan secured the role, recommended by Peter Rice, head of the company financing the film, who was impressed with her performance.

Cappie (2015)

The city streets are under the watchful eye of a mechanized police force responsible for maintaining law and order. However, a shift is occurring as the citizens rise against this authoritarian rule. A significant turning point takes place when a police detachment is stolen, granting it the extraordinary capability to experience emotions and independent thought.

This robot, affectionately named “Chappie” and portrayed by Sharlto Copley, embarks on a journey to unravel the complexities of human behaviour, leading to captivating questions about artificial intelligence. Yet, as Chappie’s consciousness blossoms, the authorities perceive him as a potential threat to humanity and the established order. With unwavering determination, they set out to ensure that Chappie remains a unique and solitary creation, resorting to any means necessary to achieve their goal.

Ender’s Game (2013)

“Ender’s Game,” a 2013 American military science-fiction action film, is an adaptation of Orson Scott Card’s 1985 novel bearing the same name. Gavin Hood both wrote and directed the film, featuring Asa Butterfield as the protagonist, Andrew “Ender” Wiggin. Ender is an exceptionally talented child who is sent to a cutting-edge military academy located in space with the primary objective of preparing for an imminent alien invasion. 

While “Ender’s Game” was initially released in Germany on October 24, 2013, and the UK a day later, it made its way to the United States, Canada, and various other nations on November 1, 2013, ultimately extending to more territories by January 2014. The film produced a range of opinions from critics, resulting in mixed reviews. Additionally, it faced challenges at the box office, failing to meet financial expectations by grossing only $125.5 million against a budget estimated at $110-115 million.

About Maze Runner

Maze Runner is a North American series that delivers the exciting action work directed by Wes Ball. The first film aired on September 19, 2014, and was a successful commercial success with more than $348 million globally. Besides, the film series, along with its parts brought prominent boost through box office

The Maze Runner (2014) Plot

Maze Runner (2014) provides the plot description of science fiction with full action. In addition, a teenager, Thomas, comes to the pivot of the labyrinth giant. He has no memory of his previous life and is dumped within this state. Thomas becomes used to this particular situation and progresses towards Runner status. Moreover, the film revolves around the patrolling of the main characters to find escape route. At last, Thomas is convinced that he knows the path to escape.

Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials (2015) Plot

The Maze Runner (2015) Plot revolves around the settlement where Thomas and his teenage Gladers face challenges. They find themselves in a strange situation created by the strong organization WCKD as the dominant force. Collectively, the main characters try to escape, and they find the real challenge of virus Cranks and hurdles. Moreover, the Gladers have good thoughts of getting the true way by tackling WCKD through battle.

Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2018) Plot

This is the most challenging mission for Thomas and his ally, where they struggle to escape. Besides, they have to overcome some serious hurdles and battle chase that prevent them from finally achieving the target. They make the final try to break into the WCKD city encounter with their peers. Furthermore, the Maze Runner (2018) plot achieves its purpose when the main characters remain alive and get the answers to their queries.

Maze Runner Cast

The famous characters in the movie include the prominent celebrities who performed the action really well. The cast comprises of the following persons:

• Thomas as Dylan O’Brien
• Teresa as Kaya Scodelario
• Newt as Thomas Brodie-Sangster
• Minho as Ki Hong Lee
• Frypan as Dexter Dardon
• Ava Paige as Patricia Clarkson
• Winston Alexander Flores
• Gally, as Will Poulter

Box office performance

The Maze Runner movies have achieved the set targets and gross box budget against the production budget. Moreover, the movies got successful box office dominance in North America and other territories of the world by getting high viewership.

Conclusion

The above-described 20 action films have related themes and plots which engage the audience through attractive, thrilling scenes. Viewers can get movies similar to Maze Runner by sensationally viewing the recommended films.

Maze Runner similar movies follow simple plots through exited scenes and plotting techniques. Overall, viewers from all over the world have shared their feedback and provided high viewership.