🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Gerard McMurray
- Genre: Action, Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
- Release year: 2018
- Runtime (length): 1h 37min
- IMDb rating: 5.2/10 (75K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 55%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
The government pays people to stay on an island to commit crimes, but then they hire mercenaries to do the crime for them, so a drug dealer becomes a hero.
🍿 The First Purge: Detailed Plot Synopsis
Introduction to the NFFA and the Experiment
In a near-future America plagued by social and economic turmoil, the New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA) rise to power. To address societal issues, they propose a radical experiment: a 12-hour period with no laws on Staten Island. Residents are offered $5,000 to stay, with additional compensation for participation, monitored via tracking devices and camera lenses.

Characters and Conflicts
The film introduces key characters like Dmitri, a drug lord planning to leave the island, and Nya, an anti-Purge activist. Isaiah, Nya’s brother, becomes entangled with Skeletor, a crazed individual eager to participate in the Purge. These intersecting storylines set the stage for the night’s chaos.

The First Purge Begins
As the Purge commences, many residents flee, while others remain for various reasons. Isaiah seeks revenge on Skeletor, and Dmitri’s plans are disrupted by betrayal within his own ranks. Skeletor commits the first act of violence, which goes viral, influencing the NFFA’s perception of the experiment.

Unforeseen Intervention
The night takes a dark turn as the NFFA secretly deploys mercenaries disguised as everyday citizens to intentionally drive up the violence and manipulate the results of the experiment. This hidden agenda is revealed, showcasing the NFFA’s sinister motives beyond simple social catharsis.

Survival and Resistance
Dmitri, realizing the true nature of the NFFA’s scheme, decides to protect his community. He confronts and eliminates those who are manipulating the Purge, including the mercenaries. Nya, Isaiah, and other survivors band together to resist the orchestrated violence.
⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Dmitri (Y’lan Noel): A drug lord with a hidden moral code who becomes a protector during the first Purge.
- Nya (Lex Scott Davis): An anti-Purge activist fighting for her community’s safety and well-being.
- Isaiah (Joivan Wade): Nya’s younger brother who seeks revenge on Skeletor during the Purge.
- Skeletor (Rotimi Paul): A crazed and unpredictable individual who embodies the violent chaos of the Purge.
- Chief of Staff – Arlo Sabian (Patch Darragh): A key member of the NFFA who orchestrates the Purge experiment with ulterior motives.
- The Architect – Dr. Updale (Marisa Tomei): The scientist behind the Purge experiment who becomes disillusioned with its true purpose.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Skeletor: “I wanna purge.” – Skeletor expresses his desire to unleash his inner darkness.
- Dmitri: “It’s time for them to fight back.” – Dmitri rallies the survivors to resist the NFFA’s control after surviving the first Purge.
- Dolores: “It tastes like old man ass” – Dolores says this line when sampling a drug.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $13,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $69,488,745
- Worldwide Gross: $137,056,262
💥 The First Purge Reviews
Personal Review
I found “The First Purge” to be a pretty intense watch, although it had its flaws. The whole premise of a government-sanctioned experiment on Staten Island felt a bit far-fetched, but the action sequences were undeniably gripping. I was really invested in the characters of Nya and Dmitri, and I was rooting for them to survive. The film made me question a lot about social injustice and government overreach. Though it had some issues, it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat!
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of the Purge franchise”
- “Viewers interested in dystopian thrillers with social commentary”
- “Audiences who enjoy action-horror films”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Graphic violence”
- “Strong language”
- “Mature themes including social injustice and government manipulation”
Professional Reviews
- ScreenRant: “While ‘The First Purge’ may not be the most original or thought-provoking installment in the franchise, it delivers the over-the-top violence and social commentary that fans have come to expect. The film’s action sequences are well-choreographed, and the performances are solid, making it a fun, if somewhat predictable, watch.
- The Wrap: “‘The First Purge’ delves into the socio-political roots of the Purge concept. The film’s attempt to tackle systemic issues sometimes feels heavy-handed, but the high-octane action and suspenseful atmosphere provide an engaging cinematic experience.
Audience Reactions
Skeletor, though evil, was a standout creepy character adding a memorable villain.: Viewers found ‘The First Purge’ thrilling and an improvement over previous installments.
Overall Consensus: While politically charged, ‘The First Purge’ offers a violent thrill ride that will satisfy fans of the franchise. The movie attempts to explore societal issues, though it may fall short for some viewers.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “The film serves as a prequel, exploring the origins of the Purge event depicted in the previous movies.”
- “The movie explores themes of social injustice and abuse of power, reflecting contemporary social issues.”
- “Rotimi Paul, who played Skeletor, wore his full costume makeup on the New York City subway to his audition.”
- “Director Gerard McMurray also appears in the film as a writer.”
🖥️ How to Watch The First Purge?
The First Purge is available for streaming on platforms like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. You can rent or purchase the movie on these services. Check local listings for possible cable or satellite availability.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed The First Purge, you might like these similar films:
- The Purge (2013): Directly connected as the film that started the franchise, exploring the initial concept of the Purge.
- Escape from New York (1981): Features a dystopian vision of New York City as a dangerous place, similar to the isolated Staten Island during the Purge.
- Assault on Precinct 13 (1976): A group of people must defend themselves against overwhelming odds, similar to the protagonists protecting their community.
🛒 The First Purge Related Products
- The Purge 5-Movie Collection [Blu-ray]: Own the complete Purge saga in this limited edition Blu-ray collection, featuring ‘The First Purge’ and all its terrifying sequels. Perfect for collectors and fans of the franchise.
- The Purge: Election Year (4K UHD): Experience the thrill of ‘The Purge: Election Year’ in stunning 4K Ultra HD. Immerse yourself in the action and suspense of this pivotal chapter in the Purge saga.
- The Purge – God Mask: High-quality, realistic mask inspired by the God mask from the Purge movies. Perfect for cosplay, Halloween, or displaying as a collector’s item.
- The Purge – Kiss Me Mask: High-quality, realistic mask inspired by the Kiss Me mask from the Purge movies. Perfect for cosplay, Halloween, or displaying as a collector’s item.
🎧 Soundtrack
The First Purge features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
Yes, The First Purge is a prequel that shows the origins of the Purge event established in the other films. It tells the story of the first experimental Purge on Staten Island.
The film explores themes of social injustice, government manipulation, and resistance against oppression. It reveals how the Purge is used as a tool to control and eliminate marginalized communities.
The First Purge is set on Staten Island in New York City, where the New Founding Fathers of America conduct their initial experimental Purge.
🔥 Bonus Content
When The Purge Ends
Ever wondered what happens *after* the Purge ends? This hilarious sketch shows the chaotic aftermath, and honestly, it’s probably way more accurate than anything in the movies! You gotta see this.
Everything Wrong With The First Purge
CinemaSins tears apart ‘The First Purge,’ and honestly, some of the plot holes they point out are HUGE! If you’re a fan, or even if you’re not, you’ll probably laugh at this one.
Hidden Meaning in THE PURGE – Earthling Cinema
Think ‘The Purge’ is just mindless violence? Wisecrack breaks down the *real* hidden meanings, and it’s surprisingly deep. You might see the movie in a whole new light after watching this!
Film Theory: How To WIN The Purge
Ever wondered how to actually *win* the Purge? Film Theory has you covered with a wild plan to get rich during the chaos. This video is insane but also kinda brilliant; check it out!
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