Plot: What’s it about?
It’s a rare thing to find a sequel surpass the original in quality. There are some popular examples, including Terminator 2, The Dark Knight, and the Empire Strikes Back, to name a few. The Purge: Anarchy can also proudly take that honor. The original opened in the summer of 2013 and was a surprise hit. Working against a relatively slim budget, it not only earned it back opening weekend, but it exceeded the low expectations of many naysayers. Box Office results aside, the original film took an interesting idea (crime is legal for 12 hours), but did little with it. It was essentially a home invasion film – one filled with various clichés. I didn’t hate the original film, but it just felt like a wasted opportunity. Obviously, the sequel was made because the original was a financial hit, but it noticeably improves on the original in a big way. For starters, it moves the mayhem to the outdoors. The idea of being out in the open during the purge is far scarier than a confined space. It adds a level of suspense because you’re never sure where to hide or who might be watching you.
The film begins with a few various story arcs. Shane (Zach Gilford) and Liz (Kiele Sanchez) are a couple driving to Shane’s sister’s house to wait it out. They run into trouble when their car breaks down in the middle of the road. Next, we meet a waitress Eva Sanchez (Carmen Ejogo) who lives in a small apartment and cares for her ill father. The last major character is the lone ranger, so to speak. Frank Grillo plays Sargent Leo Barnes. He’s nothing short of a bad ass, and has a few secrets of his own. It’s not long before he’s towing around Shane and Liz and Eva, along with her daughter. Sargent has a deadline to meet, and doesn’t want anyone delaying him. After Eva offers him a new car in exchange for him driving them to safety, he agrees. This sets the wheels in motion for the majority of the film. The group has a task and the key is getting there without being discovered. The last half takes place at a sort of ceremony held by the wealthy where they pit various victims against each other in a twisted game. It puts a new spin on bidding wars. I appreciate that this film avoids becoming preachy or heavy with politics. The opening credits gives us some statistics on the economy, but it ends there. The film never pretends to be more than what it is, and that works in its favor.
A third film has already been announced. While I don’t think this idea should continue much further, this sequel is a big step on the right direction. It’ll be interesting to see what angle is worked up for the next film. While this film has plenty of suspense, it’s more of an action film before anything else. If you were more than a little disappointed with the first film, don’t let that discourage you from checking out the sequel. It improves on the original in many ways. It’s well worth checking out. I’d hate to think of living in a world where crime is legal, but this does a good job of showing us if it is.
Video: How’s it look?
The transfer is fine as far as details and colors go, but it should be noted that this is visually a very dark film. The majority of it takes place at night, and watching it either at night or in a darker room would be more ideal. The print is free of any noticeable flaws and details are always consistent. Flesh tones are even and smooth and there are several instances displaying blood splatter. So, with a few reservations aside, the transfer satisfies as a whole. The image is AVC encoded with a 2.40:1 ratio.
Audio: How’s it sound?
The DTS HD track is solid. There’s hardly a dull moment in the film and that translates well on this track. All channels get frequent use and there’s a lot of bass that kicks in throughout the film. You might find yourself fiddling with the volume more than a few times since the gunfire kicks in every so often. Vocals are clear and concise with no major issues. The roar of motorcycles and background noise is apparent on several occasions. This track will please fans.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Universal is very hit-or-miss with the extras lately. Unfortunately, we don’t get much here, at all. Something more substantial would’ve been most welcome, but that’s not the case.
- Deleted Scenes (7:59) – We get 5 scenes here. Nothing is essential. One shows Eva asking for a raise. Another shows Shane searching for a job. Most of these are early, extended bits. They add a few bits of exposition, but nothing is greatly missed. There is one final moment coda that’s fun to see.
- Behind the Anarchy – Is a brief (8 minute) featurette. It’s actually well worth a look as it admits that the first film is flawed. There’s talk of how opening up the story benefitedthis film. I appreciate the honesty here. Usually we get nothing but praise, so it was nice to see a change of pace.
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