To best experience the visceral world of The Purge, watching the movies in chronological order, showcasing the evolution of the New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA) and the societal factors leading up to and surrounding the Purge night, is the optimal approach. Alternatively, watching in release order allows you to witness the franchise’s development in storytelling and thematic complexity as envisioned by its creators.
Understanding the Purge Universe
The Purge franchise presents a chilling dystopian vision where, for 12 hours each year, all crime, including murder, is legal. This annual event, known as “The Purge,” is orchestrated by the NFFA, who claim it helps lower crime and unemployment for the remaining 364 days. However, the films explore the darker, more sinister motives behind the Purge, revealing it as a tool for social cleansing and the elimination of the poor.
Choosing Your Viewing Order: Chronological vs. Release
Before diving in, you must decide whether to follow the chronological order of the films or the release order. Both offer unique advantages. Chronological order allows a deeper understanding of the Purge’s origins and its impact on society over time. Release order, on the other hand, mirrors the evolution of the franchise’s narrative and themes as they were unveiled to audiences. Ultimately, the best order depends on your personal preferences and viewing goals.
The Chronological Order
This order places the films and series in the timeline of the Purge universe, beginning with the earliest events and progressing forward. This allows you to witness the rise of the NFFA and the gradual implementation of the Purge.
- The First Purge (2018): This prequel explores the experimental phase of the Purge in Staten Island, showcasing its initial implementation and the government’s manipulation of the experiment.
- The Purge (2013): The original film introduces the Sandin family and their experience during the fifth annual Purge.
- The Purge: Anarchy (2014): This sequel broadens the scope, following several different groups of people struggling to survive the Purge night on the streets of Los Angeles.
- The Purge: Election Year (2016): Senator Charlie Roan campaigns to end the Purge, facing opposition from the NFFA.
- The Purge (TV Series) (2018-2019): The two-season television series explores various characters and storylines within the Purge universe, adding depth to the established lore. Note: While the exact placement of the TV series within the timeline is debated, it generally takes place after Election Year, bridging the gap to the next film.
- The Forever Purge (2021): A group of Purge supporters continues the violence beyond the designated 12 hours, leading to widespread chaos and rebellion.
The Release Order
Watching the films in the order they were released allows you to experience the franchise as it unfolded for audiences, witnessing the evolution of the story, characters, and themes.
- The Purge (2013): The film that started it all, introducing the concept of the Purge and its immediate impact on a single family.
- The Purge: Anarchy (2014): Expands the scope and explores the Purge from multiple perspectives, showing its broader societal impact.
- The Purge: Election Year (2016): Introduces political themes and the potential for the Purge to be challenged.
- The First Purge (2018): A prequel revealing the origins of the Purge and the NFFA’s initial motivations.
- The Purge (TV Series) (2018-2019): Further expands the world of the Purge through interconnected character stories.
- The Forever Purge (2021): Depicts the breakdown of order and the consequences of unchecked violence.
FAQs About Watching the Purge Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions to further enrich your viewing experience:
1. Do I Need to Watch the TV Series?
While not strictly essential for understanding the core film narrative, the TV series adds significant depth and context to the Purge universe. It explores a wider range of characters and storylines, offering a more nuanced look at the societal impact of the Purge. It’s highly recommended for those seeking a more immersive experience.
2. Is There a Post-Credits Scene I Should Watch For?
None of the Purge movies are known for having post-credits scenes. Once the credits roll, the story concludes.
3. What is the Best Purge Movie?
The “best” Purge movie is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Many fans appreciate The Purge: Anarchy for its expanded scope and action-packed sequences. Others favor The First Purge for its insights into the origins of the Purge.
4. Why Did They Start the Purge in Staten Island?
Staten Island was chosen as the location for the initial Purge experiment because it was seen as a relatively isolated and controllable environment, allowing the NFFA to monitor and analyze the effects of the Purge before rolling it out nationwide.
5. What is the NFFA’s Goal?
The NFFA claims the Purge reduces crime and unemployment. However, the movies reveal a more sinister motive: social cleansing, designed to eliminate the poor and marginalized from society.
6. Is The Purge a Political Statement?
Yes, The Purge films are heavily laden with political commentary, addressing themes of class inequality, racial tensions, government corruption, and the dangers of unchecked power.
7. Are The Purge Movies Scary?
The Purge movies offer a blend of horror and action. While they contain jump scares and graphic violence, the underlying concept of a society that sanctions murder is arguably the most disturbing aspect.
8. Is The Purge Based on a True Story?
No, The Purge is not based on a true story. It is a fictional concept, although it draws inspiration from various social and political issues.
9. Will There Be More Purge Movies?
As of this writing, the future of the Purge franchise is uncertain. However, given the franchise’s popularity and the open-ended nature of The Forever Purge, further installments are possible.
10. Who Created The Purge?
The Purge franchise was created by James DeMonaco. He wrote and directed the first three films and has been involved in the production of all subsequent installments.
11. How Does the Purge Affect Society in General?
The Purge significantly impacts society, creating a culture of fear and distrust. It disproportionately affects the poor and marginalized, leading to increased social unrest and rebellion. The films explore the long-term psychological and emotional toll of living in a society that sanctions violence.
12. What are the rules of The Purge?
The primary rule is that all crime, including murder, is legal for 12 hours, typically beginning at 7:00 PM on March 21st and ending at 7:00 AM on March 22nd. However, certain rules exist to protect key members of the NFFA and government officials. Weapons above a certain class (such as explosives) are also often prohibited. The exact rules can vary slightly from film to film.