Binge-Worthy: All the Purge Movies Ranked from Best to Worst
Alright, guys, let's dive into the chaotic world of the Purge franchise! If you're a fan of social thrillers, political commentary, or just love a good ol' bloodbath, you're in the right place. We're ranking all the Purge movies, so you can plan your binge-watching marathon like a true Purge Night veteran. Let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and all the purge.
The Purge (2013) - The Original Thrill
Kicking off our list is the movie that started it all, The Purge (2013). This film laid the groundwork for the entire franchise, introducing us to the twisted concept of an annual 12-hour period where all crime, including murder, is legal. The story follows the Sandin family, who barricade themselves in their home on the first Purge night, only to have their plans disrupted by an intruder seeking refuge.
The Purge is a tense and gripping watch, with a tight budget that it uses to its advantage. It's a solid start to the franchise, setting the stage for the world-building that would follow in the sequels. Plus, it's got that classic home-invasion thriller vibe that'll keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Purge: Anarchy (2014) - Expanding the Universe
In The Purge: Anarchy (2014), we're introduced to a new cast of characters, all trying to survive the second annual Purge night. This time around, we get a broader look at the world outside the Sandin family's home, with the action taking place mostly on the streets of Los Angeles.
Anarchy is where the franchise really starts to find its footing. It explores the social implications of the Purge, showing how the rich exploit the poor and how people form unlikely alliances in the face of extreme circumstances. It's a step up from the first film in terms of scale and scope, and it's got some truly memorable Purge Night moments.
The Purge: Election Year (2016) - Politics in Action
The Purge: Election Year (2016) is the third installment in the franchise, and it's all about politics. The story follows Charlie Roan, a presidential candidate who survived a Purge night years ago and is now vowing to abolish the annual event. Meanwhile, a group of anti-Purge activists plans to take her out during the upcoming Purge night.
Election Year is a step up from its predecessors in terms of action and spectacle. It's also the most politically charged film in the franchise, with its anti-establishment message resonating strongly with audiences. Plus, it's got Frank Grillo back as Leo Barnes, a character who's become a fan favorite.
The First Purge (2018) - Origins Explored
The First Purge (2018) is a prequel that tells the story of how the annual Purge night came to be. Set on Staten Island, the film follows a group of locals who are offered money to stay on the island during the first experimental Purge night. As the night unfolds, they must fight to survive and expose the true purpose behind the event.
The First Purge is a solid addition to the franchise, offering a fresh perspective and some much-needed backstory. It's also the most socially conscious film in the series, tackling issues of race, class, and government corruption. Plus, it's got some great performances from its cast, including Y'lan Noel as Dmitri, the film's standout protagonist.
The Forever Purge (2021) - The End of the Purge?
Bringing us up to speed, we have The Forever Purge (2021), the fifth and supposedly final film in the franchise. The story follows a group of friends who, after witnessing a particularly violent Purge night, decide to flee to Mexico for safety. However, they soon discover that the Purge has gone global, and that the rules of the game have changed forever.
The Forever Purge is a solid end to the franchise, offering a satisfying conclusion to the story that began in 2013. It's also the most visually impressive film in the series, with some truly stunning action sequences. However, it's not without its flaws, and some fans have criticized it for not pushing the boundaries of the franchise as much as they'd like.
Honorable Mention: The Purge TV Series (2018-2019)
While not a film, the Purge TV series deserves an honorable mention. Set between the events of The Purge: Election Year and The First Purge, the series offered a deeper dive into the world of the Purge, with each season focusing on a different group of characters and their experiences during the annual event. It's a must-watch for any Purge fan, offering a fresh perspective on the franchise and some truly memorable moments.
So, Which Purge Movie is the Best?
Well, guys, that depends on what you're looking for. If you want a tense home-invasion thriller, go with the original The Purge. If you want a broader look at the Purge universe and its social implications, The Purge: Anarchy and The Purge: Election Year are your best bets. If you want a prequel that explores the origins of the Purge, The First Purge is the way to go. And if you want a satisfying conclusion to the franchise, The Forever Purge is where it's at.
No matter which one you choose, one thing's for sure: the Purge franchise is a wild ride, and it's not for the faint of heart. So grab your popcorn, lock your doors, and get ready to Purge, guys. It's going to be a bloody good time!