The First Purge

The First Purge, released in 2018, is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that delves into the shocking origins of a disturbing annual tradition that continues to impact America. Starring Y'lan Noel, Lex Scott Davis, and Joivan Wade, the narrative challenges audiences to reconsider their understanding of justice and retribution in a contemporary society burdened by escalating tensions and social unrest.

Set in the not-too-distant future, the film introduces a revolutionary new governmental experiment devised by the New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA) - an event known as The Purge. The initial idea behind this extreme endeavor is to test a sociological theory claiming that a single night of nationwide violence and lawlessness would serve as a catharsis for American citizens, and thus, lead to an ultimate decrease in crime rates. Selected for the 'experiment' is Staten Island, New York, where residents are offered a financial incentive to stay put during the purge, and encouraged to "release the beast" within.

Y'lan Noel stars as Dmitri, a tough, principled individual who commands a gang on the streets of Staten Island. Predictably, he's strongly sceptical of the proposed Purge and worries about the chaos it will bring to his community. Lex Scott Davis plays Nya, a community activist who openly opposes the Purge and rallies her community against it. Joivan Wade rounds out the main cast as Isaiah, Nya's younger brother, who wrestles with the moral quandary of participating in the purge or protecting his loved ones. The film expertly explores the complex dynamics and relationships between these characters as they navigate the societal pressures and expectations that come with the Purge.

The First Purge doesn't shy away from illustrating the grim realities of the experimental event, providing intense horror elements with the hard-hitting socio-political commentary. The film does a commendable job of tackling themes of class, race, and government manipulation, employing the terrifying premise not merely for shock value but as an illuminating mirror to society's often divisive tensions.

What sets this addition to the Purge franchise apart is its exploration of the genesis of the disturbing tradition, supplementing raw thrills with a significant emphasis on character development and societal critique. As the title suggests, The First Purge reveals the roots of the annual killing spree, imbuing the franchise with a fresh, more profound perspective while maintaining the adrenaline-fueled suspense that fans have come to expect. In this manner, the film provides both an intriguing origin story for newcomers and a fresh take for franchise veterans, ensuring that both groups are thoroughly engaged and entertained.

The film features a compelling performance by Y’lan Noel, whose portrayal of the conflicted gangster Dmitri brings a profound depth to what could easily have been a one-dimensional character. Lex Scott Davis assumes the role of Nya with passion and charisma, delivering a performance that communicates the character's strength and the desperation converging around her in the face of impending chaos. Similarly, Joivan Wade shines in his role as Isaiah, expertly balancing the character's youthful naivety with a growing recognition of the harsh realities around him.

Director Gerard McMurray treats viewers to a gritty, realistic atmosphere, expertly painting Staten Island as a genuine, lived-in place teetering on the brink of social disillusionment. He, alongside writer James DeMonaco, the mind behind the original Purge film, delivers a chilling yet thought-provoking piece that strikes a delicate balance between visceral horror and social commentary. In-between the pulse-racing chase scenes, bouts of terror, and violent confrontations, they never lose sight of the broader socio-political issues and ideas lingering in the shadows of the narrative.

At its core, The First Purge is a disturbing yet enlightening exploration of societal divisions, government manipulation, and moral complexities. The movie serves as both a harrowing horror film and a potent commentary on contemporary issues, providing audiences a multifaceted narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.