‘Divergent’ film finale to be released in 2 parts

This image released by Summit Entertainment shows Shailene Woodley, left, and Theo James in a scene from “Divergent.” Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. says the final book of its “Divergent” trilogy will be made into two parts, following the lucrative formula it has used for “Twilight” and is repeating for “The Hunger Games.” (AP Photo/Summit Entertainment, Jaap Buitendijk, file)

LOS ANGELES – Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. said the final book of its “Divergent” trilogy will be made into two parts, following the lucrative formula it has used for “Twilight” and is repeating for “The Hunger Games.”

The first film in the series based on Veronica Roth’s novels has grossed $117 million in its first three weeks of release.

Part I of the finale, called “Allegiant,” will be released on March 18, 2016, followed by Part II on March 24, 2017.

“Insurgent,” the second film in the series, begins production next month. It is set for release on March 20 next year.