Dystopian young adult literature is a vast genre, and it’s only growing. Particularly after the runaway success of Suzanne Collin’s Hunger Games series, we’ve been lucky to live through a time when dystopian young adult novels are finally getting the praise they deserve.
Part of that recognition has included a wide range of dystopian young adult adaptations for the screen. From small-screen adaptations on platforms like Netflix to big-screen film adaptations, there have been countless adaptations of dystopian young adult novels in the last few decades.
To help you navigate the expansive terrain, we’ve put together a list of our ten favorite dystopian young adult adaptations for the screen.
10. The Host (2013)
Based on: The Host by Stephenie Meyer
This film is a fascinating adaptation of Stephanie Meyer’s first post-Twilight series novel. Starring Oscar nominee Saoirse Ronan, it tells the story of Melanie, a young woman who is trying to resist the insertion of an alien soul into her body.
Why we recommend it: I loved the acting, which elevated a modest script to an entertaining watch.
9. Ender’s Game (2013)
Based on: Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
This dystopian young adult adaptation is set in a future world where young children are recruited to the military in mankind’s fight against a hostile alien species. Starring Asa Butterfield, who is slated to soon appear in a new Netflix thriller, this film contains thrilling action sequences.
Why we recommend it: I loved the atmosphere and visual effects.
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8. Divergent (2014)
Based on: Divergent by Veronica Roth
In a dystopian future, everyone is divided into different categories. Except for Tris, who is divergent: she doesn’t fit neatly into any of the groups. Veteran actress Shailene Woodley makes this film a memorable adaptation of the gripping dystopian young adult series.
Why we recommend it: I loved the music and the casting in this film.
7. The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013)
Based on: The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
Clary is thrust into the world of the Shadowhunters, a select group of individuals responsible for protecting the world from demons. The film adaptation of this dystopian young adult novel stars Lily Collins, who brings Clary’s determination and brilliance to light.
Why we recommend it: I loved the dark aesthetic of this film adaptation, as well as the fantasy elements.
6. Ready Player One (2018)
Based on: Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
This dystopian young adult film was directed by Hollywood legend Steven Spielberg, and it shows. (The man knows how to direct a successful film adaptation!) It tells the story of young Wade, who enters a bizarre contest to run the world’s most popular virtual reality.
Why we recommend it: I loved the nostalgia in this adaptation.
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5. The Maze Runner (2014)
Based on: The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Thomas is trapped in a bizarre and menacing maze, with no memory of his past. In this dystopian young adult adaptation starring Dylan O’Brien, we are thrust into a world of mystery, romance, and danger. As Thomas uncovers a larger conspiracy at play, can he make it out alive?
Why we recommend it: I liked how loyal this film adaptation was to the young adult novel.
4. Catching Fire (2013)
Based on: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
This dystopian young adult adaptation is the second in the Hunger Games series, and it might even have more adventure and tension than the first. It follows heroine Katniss Everdeen, arguably one of the coolest female protagonists of all time, as she returns to fight for her life once again.
As Katniss strives to defy the oppressive powers of the Capitol, her survival takes on a deeper meaning. Despite the target on her back, can she prevail?
Why we recommend it: I love this adaptation so much, particularly the fashion and the cast. It’s a young adult dystopian masterpiece.
3. The Giver (2014)
Based on: The Giver by Lois Lowry
This young adult film adaptation incorporates some of the most definitive tropes of dystopian fiction. It stars Meryl Streep and Taylor Swift, who are no strangers to the world of movies, and tells the story of Jonas, a boy who is responsible for holding the memories of everyone around him to protect them from negative emotions.
Why we recommend it: I love the story, and Streep absolutely crushes it in this dystopian film.
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2. The Divergent Series: Insurgent (2015)
Based on: Insurgent by Veronica Roth
The sequel to the 2014 adaptation of Divergent, this dystopian young adult adaptation follows Tris as she navigates the wastelands of post-apocalyptic Chicago. Tris, played again by Shailene Woodley, struggles to support a rising rebellion against the oppressive power structures that divide society as she is pursued relentlessly by the evil Jeannie.
Why we recommend it: I adored Kate Winslet’s full commitment to this role, which was delightfully thrilling.
1. The Hunger Games (2012)
Based on: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Arguably the most successful dystopian young adult adaptation, The Hunger Games deserves its crown. Academy Award winner Jennifer Lawrence stars as Katniss Everdeen, a normal teenage girl who is forced to fight for her survival in a brutal and horrific game. The movie is serious, thrilling, and one of the few films that might just be fun for the whole family.
Why we recommend it: I love the tone of this movie and how wonderfully Lawrence portrays the unstoppable Katniss.
As the autumn months begin, now is the perfect time to cozy up for a movie night, and dystopian young adult adaptations are a great choice for your next watch. We hope this list has helped you navigate the wide and wonderful world of dystopian young adult movies.
Happy watching!
