The Purge: Anarchy

Set in Los Angeles, circa 2023, this ramped-up sequel to last year's unexpected sci-fi horror hit takes place during the annual Purge, a 12-hour period in which ghoulishly-masked participants can commit all kinds of crimes (rape, theft, murder, etc.) without fear of reprisal or punishment from a government that calls itself the New Founding Fathers of America. Psychologists explain that “having a good cleanse” allows ordinary citizens to indulge their basest aggressive instincts, a cathartic action that serves to keep the crime rate and population growth in check for the rest of the year, cut the unemployment rate, and enrich the coffers of arms manufacturers. Caught outside in the chaos are an impoverished waitress/single mother, Eva (Carmen Ejogo), and her rebellious 16-year-old daughter (Zoë Soul), who discover (to their horror) that Eva's elderly father (John Beasley) has sold his life to an organization that arranges private Purging parties for wealthy thrill-seekers. Also threatened are a stranded, squabbling yuppie couple (real-life pair Zach Gilford and Kiele Sanchez). So it's up to stoic loner Leo Barnes (Frank Grillo), a police sergeant seeking vengeance on those responsible for the death of his young son, to shelter the potential victims in his weapons-laden, armor-plated car—which, predictably, becomes disabled, forcing the terrified group to make their way on foot to seek shelter. Once again written and directed by James DeMonaco, this simplistic survivalist tale satirizing American bloodlust is an optional purchase. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include a “Behind the Anarchy” production segment (9 min.) and trailers. Exclusive to the Blu-ray release are deleted scenes (8 min.), and bonus DVD, digital, and UltraViolet copies of the film. Bottom line: a small extras packages for a so-so sequel.] (S. Granger)