The Purge: Anarchy (2014)★★★★☆

So, while the first one was more about family and survival (no surprise I liked it then, eh?), this one was definitely more about the Purge. Oh, and Frank Grillo. It was also about Frank Grillo.

And I liked it! Unlike some other sequels, I felt this one actually added to the story. The Purge is an interesting concept and it’s sort of glossed over in the first film. You get enough context to feel like you understand the universe but not quite enough context to feel like all your questions have been answered.

This one isn’t quite as scary as the first one – it plays more like an action film than a horror film most of the time. Which at least means the pacing is good – there weren’t any parts that dragged on or felt slow.

Most of the characters are sympathetic and their stories compelling – except for the blonde couple. They annoyed the crap out of me. But Frank Grillo is awesome and it was nice to see Edwin Hodge back again in this one.

I’m definitely excited to see what the new one brings!