The Purge: Election Year (2016)

The Purge: Election Year (2016) is a gripping Hollywood action-horror film that marked the third installment in the popular "Purge" franchise. Directed by James DeMonaco, who also wrote the screenplay, this movie continues to delve into the chilling dystopian world where, for one night a year, all crime, including murder, is legal.

Plot Overview

Set in the near future, "The Purge: Election Year" unfolds against the backdrop of a nation deeply divided over the annual "Purge" — a 12-hour period during which all crimes are legalized, ostensibly to allow citizens to vent their anger and reduce crime rates for the rest of the year. The central storyline follows Senator Charlie Roan, played by Elizabeth Mitchell, who is running for president on a platform promising to end the Purge once and for all. Her stance puts her squarely in the crosshairs of the government and wealthy elites who benefit from this brutal tradition.

Frank Grillo reprises his role as Leo Barnes, a former police sergeant assigned as Roan's head of security. Throughout the film, Barnes must protect Senator Roan during the Purge night, fending off deadly homicide squads and corrupt forces intent on eliminating her to maintain this violent status quo. The tension escalates as Barnes and Roan navigate through deadly situations that highlight the social and political commentary of the Purge franchise — focusing on class, power, and morality in a chaotic world.

Main Cast and Characters

• Frank Grillo as Leo Barnes: Grillo delivers a compelling performance as the protective and hardened security leader, who has a personal vendetta against the lawlessness of the Purge.
• Elizabeth Mitchell as Senator Charlie Roan: Mitchell portrays a strong, determined politician fighting for justice and to dismantle the corrupt system enabling the Purge.
• Brittany Mirabile and Roman Blat: Both actors contributed supporting roles that add depth to the tense and suspenseful environment of the film.

Direction and Writing

James DeMonaco, who has been the visionary behind the "Purge" series, both directed and wrote "Election Year." His storytelling continues to blend intense action sequences with thought-provoking horror, examining societal issues through a dystopian lens. DeMonaco's direction ensures that the movie maintains a balance of suspense, adrenaline, and critical commentary, making it more than just a standard horror flick.

Genre and Style

As an action horror film, "The Purge: Election Year" combines the adrenaline-fueled tension and violence expected from the series with the horror genre's unsettling atmosphere. The movie is a grim and gritty exploration of human nature when laws are suspended, and violence becomes sanctioned. It also holds a political thriller edge, highlighting the clash between progressive ideals and entrenched corruption.

Reception and Legacy

Upon release, the film was praised for elevating the franchise's stakes by incorporating political themes alongside its traditional horror and action elements. Frank Grillo's and Elizabeth Mitchell's performances were particularly noted for bringing depth to their characters. "The Purge: Election Year" helped solidify the series as a cultural commentary on societal fears about security, governance, and morality.

Conclusion

Overall, "The Purge: Election Year" is a compelling chapter in the "Purge" franchise, blending visceral action and horror with thought-provoking social commentary. With a strong cast led by Frank Grillo and Elizabeth Mitchell and the creative direction of James DeMonaco, it offers both thrills and a stark reflection on the costs of societal violence and political corruption.

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