This humble opinion is brought to by you T. K. Edwards

THE FIRST PURGE – Rated R – 1 hr. 37 mins

Director by: Gerard McMurray

Cast: Marisa Tomei, Y’Ian Noel, Lex Scott Davis, Joivan Wade, Lauren Velez

The fourth installment of the Purge franchise shows how the Purge actually began.

THIS SEGMENT DOES NOT CONTAIN SPOILERS

I have always thought THE PURGE franchise was unique and creative. I enjoyed the first and second film, but the third one started showing signs of the franchise going in a different direction. It looked like they were just making a movie just to make one or because they knew they could squeeze a few more dollars out of a franchise that has run its course…for example:

SAW FRANCHISE
FINAL DESTINATION FRANCHISE
HALLOWEEN FRANCHISE
FRIDAY THE 13TH FRANCHISE
NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET FRANCHISE
INSIDIOUS FRANCHISE
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY FRANCHISE

But, to my surprise, THE FIRST PURGE really did keep my attention throughout the entire film. It had everything you wanted in a PURGE movie including the perfect blend of violence, gore, a very good story, better than average action, and some very strong themes. If you were to ask me to put THE PURGE films in order of best to worst, they would go as follows:

THE PURGE
THE PURGE: ANARCHY
THE FIRST PURGE
THE PURGE: ELECTION YEAR

Moreover, THE FIRST PURGE has come out in theaters right at the perfect time. With everything that is going on these days with Hollywood recognizing the amount “Whitewashing” its been doing and also not giving enough opportunities to more African American actors and directors, it was incredibly refreshing to see Gerard McMurray given as much “free reign” as they did. You could tell McMurray had some strong feelings inside him that he wanted to get out and THE FIRST PURGE gave him that opportunity. I think he has a great voice and a bright future as a Hollywood director. In my opinion you should go see THE FIRST PURGE in theaters only if you’re a fan of the franchise, otherwise wait to watch this one at home – it’s still worth a look. Until next time, thanks for reading.