“Maze Runner: The Scorch Trails” is the second film in the continuing story of the “Maze Runner” saga. Thomas (Dylan O’ Brien) knows something isn’t right when a group of so-called helpers place him and his friends in confinement and, at lunch time, frequently take small groups of people away, and they never return. When Thomas and another young man explore why these groups are taken away, Thomas learns a girl he cares for, Teresa, is in serious danger. The only hope for Thomas and Teresa, as well as his friends, is to force their way out and seek shelter.
This leads to them being chased not only by their captors, but also by a group of zombie-like creatures that will infect them if they are scratched or bitten. Their flight leads them to Scorch, a desert-like location, remote and full of danger. They find sanctuary for a time, but little do they know their former captors intend to capture them once more.
Several jump scenes in the movie will startle some viewers. The film plays like a horror film at times, with a lot of focus on the chase with the zombie-like creatures. The movie moves briskly, as it features many chase sequences, explosions, shootings, and other action-packed drama. Unfortunately, the use of harsh language and profanity is constant in the film, not to mention the violence with bloody scenes. For these reasons, we are unable to present the film our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal.