Scott Gentry reviews "The Purge", the new action thriller starring Ethan Hawke and Lena Headey.

"The Purge" (15)
Director: James DeMonaco.
Starring: Ethan Hawke, Lena Headey, Edwin Hodge.
Rated: 15, for containing strong language and bloody violence.
Out now in UK cinemas.


Set in the (not so distant) future, once a year and for twelve hours, all crime is legalised. For people who do not want to be a part of the destruction, they sit inside their homes (complete with security systems) and wait for the night to end. However, on this one night, when a man breaks into their house, a family must decide to take part in the purge; or to fight through the night.


What started as an interesting concept became an awful film in which there are movie clichés galore. The idea that crime is legalised once a year, was highly intriguing and would possibly be transferred into a decent film. I thought wrong.

It was Friday the thirty-first, of May and it was time for my weekly cinema trip with some friends. Adverts for "The Purge" had been placed everywhere and there were some positive reviews that persuaded me to watch it. As I made my way into the cinema screen, I looked around to see a fairly packed out screening. I was quite positive and ready for what seemed would be a fairly enjoyable film.


As the opening credits rolled, there were scenes of extreme violence played to some nice classical music. How lovely. The first half an hour was interesting and spent most of its time setting up the film`s plot line. Then, the film dips.

The acting becomes boring as the film progresses, but the presence of Ethan Hawke ("Daybreakers" and "Before Midnight") and Lena Headey ("Game Of Thrones") saves the film from failing completely.


An interesting concept, which never leaves the ground. Perhaps with more care and attention, the film could have been better.


TWO STARS

Written by Scott Gentry.