---
title: "The Purge"
year: 2013
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/the-purge-2013"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 158015
imdb_id: "tt2184339"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 85
community_rating: 6.3
vote_count: 8908
content_rating: "R"
---

# The Purge (2013) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/the-purge-2013

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

In a fictional United States, the government implements a social experiment to alleviate overcrowding in prisons. This experiment involves designated periods of time where certain laws are suspended, allowing citizens to engage in previously prohibited activities. The purpose of these designated periods is to temporarily reduce crime rates and alleviate prison overcrowding. During one such period, a family faces a threat to their safety. They must defend themselves against an unwelcome intrusion into their home. The family's ability to protect themselves is put to the test as they navigate the consequences of this social experiment. The events that unfold challenge the family's values and survival instincts. The film explores the consequences of a society that temporarily abandons its laws and moral codes.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A family must protect themselves during an annual 12-hour period when all crime is legal."

### Why Watch
- explores a high-concept dystopian premise
- features intense home invasion suspense

### Caveats & Content Note
- set entirely in one house during the carnage
- contains intense violence
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains intense violence and dark themes suitable for mature audiences.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: tense, suspenseful, thrilling, dark

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | None | None | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Crave, Starz Amazon Channel, Netflix Standard with Ads, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Crave Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: James DeMonaco
- **Networks / Studios**: Universal Pictures, Why Not Productions, Platinum Dunes

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Ethan Hawke** as *James Sandin*
- **Lena Headey** as *Mary Sandin*
- **Max Burkholder** as *Charlie Sandin*
- **Adelaide Kane** as *Zoey Sandin*
- **Edwin Hodge** as *Bloody Stranger*
- **Rhys Wakefield** as *Polite Leader*
- **Tony Oller** as *Henry*
- **Arija Bareikis** as *Mrs. Grace Ferrin*
- **Tom Yi** as *Mr. Cali*
- **Chris Mulkey** as *Mr. Halverson*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was The Purge released?
The film was released in the US on June 6, 2013.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The movie has a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes.

### Q: What genres does the film belong to?
The movie is classified under science fiction, horror, and thriller.

### Q: What is the premise of the event in the film?
The U.S. government allows a 12-hour period where all illegal activity is legal due to overcrowded prisons.

### Q: Who is targeted during the event in the synopsis?
A family must protect themselves from a home invasion during the 12-hour free-for-all.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*