The Purge: Anarchy

R

Released Jul 18, 2014

1h 43m

Action

Mystery & Thriller

Horror

List

58%

143 Reviews

Tomatometer

56%

50,000+ Ratings

Audience Score

One night per year, the government sanctions a 12-hour period in which citizens can commit any crime they wish -- including murder -- without fear of punishment or imprisonment. Leo, a sergeant who lost his son, plans a vigilante mission of revenge during the mayhem. However, instead of a death-dealing avenger, he becomes the unexpected protector of four innocent strangers who desperately need his help if they are to survive the night.

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Critics Consensus

Gritty, grisly, and uncommonly ambitious, The Purge: Anarchy represents a slight improvement over its predecessor, but it's still never as smart or resonant as it tries to be.

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Nawt W

James DeMonaco's wild writing style doesn't bother with legal terms like premeditation. Even though the characters in the story already know that the government uses the Purge as an excuse to eliminate certain projects, Big Daddy still has to repeat it to Sergeant, just in case you missed it. This movie is probably the best Purge film when it comes to the story.

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars

03/28/24

Full Review

Kai B

it had an interesting premise with minimal filler werent quite as much action as i hoped but there still was alot none the less and over all it was decent boring at time but still it was decent would recommend

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

03/25/24

Full Review

Rex L

## Buckle Up for Mayhem: A Positive Take on "The Purge: Anarchy" "The Purge: Anarchy" ups the ante on its predecessor, taking viewers on a thrilling ride through a night of legalized lawlessness. While the first film focused on a single family, "Anarchy" broadens the scope, showcasing the chaos that erupts during the annual Purge. This sequel isn't afraid to get gritty. Director James DeMonaco throws us into the heart of the carnage, following a group of strangers whose paths collide on Purge Night. Frank Grillo is captivating as the hardened Sergeant, a man with a mysterious past seeking redemption. The supporting cast delivers strong performances as well, each character adding a layer of desperation and humanity to the fight for survival. Where "The Purge" explored the psychological horror of the event, "Anarchy" leans more heavily into action. The film boasts heart-pounding chase sequences and intense firefights, all filmed with a raw, visceral energy. The special effects, particularly for the various weaponry, are impressive and add to the film's immersive quality. But "The Purge: Anarchy" isn't just mindless action. It delves into the social commentary of the Purge, highlighting the stark divide between the haves and have-nots. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the cruelty and desperation that can emerge when all rules are thrown out the window. Despite the bleak premise, "The Purge: Anarchy" isn't without hope. There are moments of genuine camaraderie and compassion that shine through the darkness, reminding us of the power of human connection even in the most dire circumstances. If you're looking for a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you think, "The Purge: Anarchy" delivers. It's a wild ride with a powerful message, perfect for fans of dystopian thrillers and action-packed horror.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

03/24/24

Full Review

Dan R

One of my favourite genres of films are those that look into dystopian worlds and futures. Recently I realised I'd never seen all of the films within 'The Purge' franchise, so with that in mind I decided to check into the bloody and unforgiving universe that these films live in. In chronological order within the universe: 'The First Purge' (2018) This film sets out how the Founding Fathers took control of America and their implementation of the first Purge in the small, impoverished, area of Staten Island. The true reasons behind The Purge are revealed here and it's a lot darker than we'd ever expect. This information serves us well for the rest of the franchise. (8/10) 'The Purge' (2013) The original film feels a lot smaller in scale as it takes place within one household rather than a sprawling city scape. However, this is probably the best acted film within the franchise with Ethan Hawke putting in an exceptional performance. You'll probably never look at your neighbours the same way again after this. (8/10) 'The Purge: Anarchy' (2014) Anarchy by name and it's anarchy by nature as Frank Grillo's character heads out for revenge on Purge night, but gets caught up in something more visceral. This film drives the franchise forward and sets up characters and scenarios that'll appear later in this universe. (7/10) 'The Purge: Election Year' (2016) Grillo's character returns but this time as a secret service agent who's assigned the task of keeping a Presidential candidate alive during The Purge. The corruption of the Government is revealed as they change the rules of The Purge so they can remain in power. It's an intriguing look at how power corrupts absolutely. It's a bloody escapade of survival and redemption. (8/10) 'The Forever Purge' (2021) This film shows America in complete chaos after 8 Purge free years, but with The Purge now returning after an election win for the Founding Fathers. As The Purge ends people rebel and act against immigrants and the rich. 'The Forever Purge' really highlights societal issues going on presently in America. The film's strengths really stand in its strong cast and a visceral rip-roarer of a story. It's a great way to end the franchise even though it appears we'll now get further films. (8/10) Overall this is a great franchise which also spawned an Amazon Prime TV series. It's certainly a universe I'd like to see more of in the future. It's very raw in its vision, delivery and philosophy. Make it happen Hollywood.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

03/06/24

Full Review

Gaming U

A solid horror movie overall

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/20/24

Full Review

Audience Member

The best one in the series, great action/suspense movie!

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

01/24/24

Full Review

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James DeMonaco

Director

Frank Grillo

Leo

Carmen Ejogo

Eva

Zach Gilford

Shane

Kiele Sanchez

Liz

Michael Kenneth Williams

Carmelo

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The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - We Can't Have Heroes

2:15

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - We're Here to Help

3:08

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - Sergeant's Revenge

1:40

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - The Face of God

1:22

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - Sergeant Stops a Purge

3:05

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - We're Being Hunted

2:39

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - Commencement

2:59

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - It's a Trap!

1:43

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - Cheaters Deserve to Die

3:25

The Purge: Anarchy: Official Clip - There's a Whole Army

1:41

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The Purge: Election Year

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for The Purge: Election Year

41%

36%

The Purge

56%

27%

The First Purge

TRAILER

for The First Purge

49%

78%

The Forever Purge

TRAILER

for The Forever Purge

34%

50%

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Candice Frederick

Reel Talk Online

I'm completely on board with the horror action, but this sequel really points out the glaring thematic flaws.

Rated: C

Sep 2, 2017

Full Review

Mark Kermode

Observer (UK)

A nasty little B-picture, unashamed of its exploitation roots.

Rated: 3/5

Jul 26, 2014

Full Review

Donald Clarke

Irish Times

The action sequences are well judged throughout. But we never get any closer to understanding which end of the fence the film-makers sit at.

Rated: 3/5

Jul 25, 2014

Full Review

Keith Garlington

Keith & the Movies

Despite the movie’s blundering detour it does get back on track just in time to provide an unexpected satisfying ending.

Rated: 3/5

Aug 24, 2022

Full Review

Brian Eggert

Deep Focus Review

The movie's attempts at social commentary about the decline of U.S. culture and increasingly extreme politics are overshadowed by how DeMonaco revels in morbid ultra-violence.

Rated: 2/4

Apr 11, 2022

Full Review

Dan Brightmore

NME (New Musical Express)

...it will leave a nasty taste in your mouth, making you wince and jump out of your seat.

Rated: 3/5

May 25, 2021

Full Review

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Synopsis

One night per year, the government sanctions a 12-hour period in which citizens can commit any crime they wish -- including murder -- without fear of punishment or imprisonment. Leo, a sergeant who lost his son, plans a vigilante mission of revenge during the mayhem. However, instead of a death-dealing avenger, he becomes the unexpected protector of four innocent strangers who desperately need his help if they are to survive the night.

Director: James DeMonaco
Producer: Jeanette Volturno, Luc Etienne
Screenwriter: James DeMonaco
Distributor: Universal Pictures
Production Co: Platinum Dunes, Why Not Productions, Blumhouse
Rating: R (Strong Disturbing Violence|Language)
Genre: Action, Mystery & Thriller, Horror
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Jul 18, 2014, Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Oct 7, 2014
Box Office (Gross USA): $71.5M
Runtime: 1h 43m

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