The Purge: Anarchy - Movie Review

So, here we are again, ready for our annual Purge, although this years Purge is a slightly more ambitious B grade movie that has an abundance of good ideas, instead of just the one.

The original Purge film, was a good example of a floundered idea, that merely used the good concept as a reason for a home invasion flick.

While this years Purge tries to be a bit more ambitious with its concept, by adding commentaries on class, wealth disparity and Gun control. And to be fair it doesn't do a bad job at either.

The story starts basically with 4 individuals beings stranded outside on the night of the Purge, due to some unfortunate series of events, when a mysterious stranger (basically The Punisher) attempts to help them survive the night. What follows could be considered a gritty road trip movie through the various events that occur on Purge night.

As a whole the cast do a good job, with Frank Grillo being the standout, providing us with a bad ass with a hidden motive. While the rest of characters seem to be too inconsistent and lack any substantial personality, although portrayed well enough, I don't feel they are memorable enough to have enough impact.

Now we come to the look and feel of the film, in total the looks pretty good, with some stand out moments and imagery, which is stylized enough to add to the character of the movie.

With burning firetrucks and one percenters who look like modern day photoshopped aristocrats. The style is just enough there to add to the films messages and atmosphere.



Unfortunately, it's the feel of the film that lets it down the most. The action sequences are done well, but a few of them have these strange inconsistencies that robs them of all tension, such as a pursing vehicle that takes about five minutes to travel five meters.

There is also a lack of payoff in terms of the things it does well, enemies have disappointing reveals and the mystery reveal seems rushed. The film also fails to go higher than 3rd gear, with just a lack of that one big action moment.

Overall, This years Purge improves on the original, by having some ambition and some good ideas. But this B grade action movie is fun and interesting for the most part, but fails to fully unleash the beast.

Rating: 6/10