The Purge: Election Year - A Parent's Guide

Hey guys! Thinking about watching The Purge: Election Year but wondering if it's okay for your kids? You've come to the right place! As parents, we always want to make informed decisions about the movies and shows our families watch. This guide will break down the movie's content so you can decide if it aligns with your family's values and tolerance for violence and other mature themes.

What is The Purge: Election Year About?

The Purge: Election Year is the third installment in the Purge franchise. The Purge movies center around a dystopian America where, for one night a year, all crime is legal. This annual event, known as the Purge, is intended to allow citizens to release pent-up aggression and helps to keep crime rates low for the rest of the year. However, as the series progresses, the Purge is revealed to be a tool used by the wealthy elite to control the population and eliminate the poor and marginalized.

In Election Year, Senator Charlie Roan, played by Elizabeth Mitchell, is running for president on a platform to end the Purge. Having survived the Purge as a child when her family was murdered, she is determined to abolish the barbaric tradition. Her stance puts her in direct opposition to the New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA), the political party that initiated the Purge. As the election nears, the NFFA sees Senator Roan as a threat to their power and sets out to assassinate her during the annual Purge. The movie follows Senator Roan and her head of security, Leo Barnes (Frank Grillo), as they fight to survive the night while also trying to protect the principles of democracy and justice. The film explores themes of political corruption, social inequality, and the abuse of power, making it a thought-provoking, albeit violent, thriller. Understanding the basic premise of the film is crucial before diving into the specifics of what parents should be aware of.

Violence: How Gory Does It Get?

Let's be real; The Purge movies are known for their violence, and Election Year is no exception. If you're squeamish or your kids are sensitive to on-screen bloodshed, this might not be the movie for you. The violence is frequent and often graphic, playing a central role in the film's narrative and thematic exploration of societal breakdown and moral decay. It's not just about simple action sequences; the violence is often stylized and disturbing, designed to shock and provoke a reaction from the audience.

Expect to see a lot of gun violence, including shootings, stabbings, and people being bludgeoned. There are scenes of torture and executions, which can be particularly disturbing. The movie doesn't shy away from showing the aftermath of violence, with graphic depictions of injuries and death. The Purge: Election Year ratchets up the intensity, showing violence inflicted by both ordinary citizens and organized groups participating in the Purge. The filmmakers use these scenes to highlight the depravity and moral bankruptcy that the Purge unleashes, making it clear that the event is not just a release of aggression but a descent into savagery. It's important to consider your child's tolerance for this kind of intense imagery before allowing them to watch the film. For younger or more sensitive viewers, the level of violence may be overwhelming and potentially traumatizing. While some viewers may find the violence cathartic or a form of social commentary, others may find it gratuitous and disturbing. Therefore, parental discretion is strongly advised when considering whether or not to watch The Purge: Election Year with children.

Language: What Kind of Words Are Used?

The language in The Purge: Election Year is pretty rough, mirroring the intense and violent nature of the film. You can expect to hear frequent use of the F-word, along with other curse words like "shit," "ass," and "bitch." These aren't just casual uses; they're often delivered with anger and aggression, adding to the film's overall intensity and gritty atmosphere. The characters use strong language to express their fear, frustration, and hatred, reflecting the heightened emotions of a society where violence is not only legal but encouraged for one night. The dialogue is often harsh and confrontational, filled with insults and threats. Racial slurs and derogatory terms are also used, particularly by the antagonists, to emphasize their bigotry and hatred. While the language is not constant, it's pervasive enough to be a significant factor for parents to consider.

Beyond the standard curse words, there's also offensive language related to race and social class. Given the film's themes of social inequality and political corruption, characters sometimes use derogatory terms to demean and dehumanize others. This kind of language can be particularly impactful and upsetting, especially for younger viewers who may not fully understand the context or implications. If you're trying to shield your kids from this type of language, this movie will be a challenge. The frequent and intense use of profanity and offensive terms contributes to the film's overall sense of chaos and moral decay. For families who prioritize avoiding strong language, The Purge: Election Year may not be a suitable choice. It's important to be aware that the language is not just incidental; it is deliberately used to create a sense of realism and to underscore the brutality of the world depicted in the film. Parents should consider the impact of such language on their children and make an informed decision based on their family's values and sensitivities.

Mature Themes: What Issues Does the Movie Tackle?

The Purge: Election Year delves into some heavy themes that might spark important conversations with older kids and teens. The film isn't just about mindless violence; it uses the premise of the Purge to explore deeper societal issues like social inequality, political corruption, and the abuse of power. These themes are woven into the narrative, prompting viewers to think critically about the world around them and the systems that perpetuate injustice.

One of the most prominent themes is social inequality. The movie highlights how the Purge disproportionately affects the poor and marginalized, who are often unable to protect themselves from the violence. It portrays the Purge as a tool used by the wealthy elite to control the population and eliminate those they deem undesirable. This theme can lead to discussions about economic disparities, systemic racism, and the importance of fighting for social justice. The film also tackles political corruption, portraying the New Founding Fathers of America (NFFA) as a group of power-hungry individuals who manipulate the Purge for their own gain. This theme can spark conversations about the importance of holding politicians accountable and the dangers of unchecked power. The abuse of power is another significant theme, as the film shows how those in positions of authority can exploit and oppress others. It raises questions about the responsibility of leaders and the need for ethical governance. The movie also touches on themes of revenge, morality, and the value of human life, providing ample opportunities for discussion and reflection. For older teenagers, these themes can be particularly relevant as they begin to grapple with complex social and political issues. However, it's important for parents to be prepared to guide these discussions and provide context for younger viewers who may not fully understand the nuances of these themes. Overall, The Purge: Election Year offers a thought-provoking exploration of important social and political issues, making it a potentially valuable film for sparking meaningful conversations with teenagers.

Is The Purge: Election Year Right for Your Family?

Okay, so after breaking it all down, the big question remains: Is The Purge: Election Year a good fit for your family? Honestly, it depends on your kids' ages, maturity levels, and your family's values. This isn't a movie you can just throw on without thinking about it. It's got a lot of intense violence, strong language, and mature themes that could be disturbing or upsetting for some viewers.

If you have younger kids, say under 15, this movie is probably not a good idea. The violence is graphic and the themes are complex, which could be overwhelming or even traumatizing for them. Even for older teens, it's worth considering their individual sensitivities. Some teens might be able to handle the violence and engage with the themes in a thoughtful way, while others might find it too disturbing. It's also important to think about your family's values. If you're trying to shield your kids from violence and strong language, this movie is definitely not for you. However, if you're open to discussing mature themes and using movies as a way to spark conversations about important social issues, The Purge: Election Year could be a valuable, albeit intense, experience. Before making a decision, it might be helpful to watch the trailer or read some reviews to get a better sense of the movie's tone and content. You could also talk to other parents who have seen the film and get their perspectives. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Just make sure you're making an informed choice that's right for your family. If you do decide to watch it with your teens, be prepared to have some serious conversations afterward. This movie raises a lot of important questions, and it's a great opportunity to explore them together.

Alternatives to The Purge: Election Year

If you're looking for something suspenseful but less graphic, there are plenty of other options. Consider thrillers with more psychological suspense rather than outright gore. Movies that focus on mystery and intrigue can be just as engaging without relying on excessive violence.

For families who enjoy action but want to avoid extreme content, superhero movies or adventure films might be a better fit. These genres often offer exciting stories and thrilling action sequences while maintaining a more moderate level of violence. You could also explore documentaries that tackle social and political issues in a less sensationalized way. Documentaries can be a great way to educate and engage with important topics without exposing your kids to graphic content. Ultimately, the best alternative depends on your family's specific preferences and values. Take the time to research different options and find something that everyone can enjoy without feeling uncomfortable or disturbed. There are countless movies and shows out there, so you're sure to find something that fits the bill. Remember, the goal is to have a shared viewing experience that is both entertaining and enriching, without compromising your family's comfort level.