The Purge (2013)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  5 / 10

  The Purge portrays a politically unexplored murderous concept. Never has an idea, particularly in the current modern age, such as an annual purge been so relevant. Rise in gun crimes, murders, robberies and all round destructive behaviour has granted us viewers with a politically charged tactic to eradicate crime for the rest of the year. 12 hours of pure carnage where the public's inner anger and hatred is unleashed. So why are we just watching a family protect their home and run around in the dark for an hour and a half? What a waste of potential! With such an intriguing premise to then only showcase a home invasion thriller was wastage of the highest order. Nuclear waste! The script writers need to be purged for not exploring this enthralling concept. However, as a home invasion thriller it is just fine. Hawke and Headey bring in some much needed star quality with the former always dependable in committing himself to the performance. A few thrills are maintained with some intriguing directing techniques, such as utilising a horrifically half-charred doll as a remote control camera. The antagonistic purgers harnessed a sense of civilisation balanced out with absurd insanity, a synecdoche of society if you will. The pacing was well structured with a surprising ending that certainly wasn't underwhelming by any means. Just...the whole film was underwhelming instead. Filled with stupid character choices, particularly from the children, that represent convenient plot devices in order to make a thriller. Oh and the boyfriend...don't get me started on him. What a stupid decision to make, how was that going to benefit him in anyway!? No political stimulation or mental thought-provoking themes, just a family protecting themselves which we have seen far too often in similar films. Some may prefer a reduced scale thriller like this, but for such an interesting idea I wanted far more exploration. The end product is just another forgettable start to a franchise that perhaps should've purged itself. Fortunately though, the sequel is far superior...

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