The Purge: Anarchy (2014)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  The Purge Anarchy steps outside onto city streets and lets chaos ensue. Forget about its predecessor which was a forgettable home invasion thriller. This sequel is a perfect example in realising a concept. "Purging" is an intriguing idea, one that means something different to various socioeconomic groups in America. Of course entirely fictional (at least for now...), this film illustrates the possibilities and consequences of the existence of such a law. Three groups of strangers coincidentally join together in an attempt to survive the night of the annual "Purge". DeMonaco fully conceptualises the "Purge" and thoroughly explores various backgrounds. The perspective of those in poverty who just want to survive, the view of the wealthy who pay for martyrs and specific individuals who purge for personal gains. The "cleanse your body" ethos that surrounds this law masquerades its true intentions of culling the population. Governmental agents sent specifically to target buildings in areas of low economic wealth. Intriguing yet intimidating. I'm just glad it only took one sequel to showcase the daunting politics of the "Purge". The strikingly vivid chaos ranges from dark alleyways littered with traps to quiet neighbourhoods that gradually become polluted with the piercing sound of gunfire. For some reason unbeknown to me, everyone who is purging suddenly become maniacal and insane, even going so far as to wearing masks (which is pointless if you're allowed to murder by law?). Unfortunately this aspect isn't explored as thoroughly. The acting was pretty good, particularly from Grillo who exhumes anger and rage. A few plot conveniences here and there, the most noticeable being saved at the last minute in the hunting room. Really? Seemed like a cheap way out to me. But it remains enjoyable throughout, exploring political and social commentaries that may just be apt for today's society, whilst containing plenty of violence and a few jump scares. A sequel that improves almost entirely on its predecessor. The real question is: "would you purge?".

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