10 Movies & Shows Like The Purge (2018)

Description: A dystopian game show where convicts are hunted for sport, highlighting themes of media manipulation, authoritarian control, and the spectacle of violence.

Fact: The film is loosely based on a Stephen King novel written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. Arnold Schwarzenegger performed many of his own stunts.

Description: A group of individuals is forced to fight to the death in a government-sanctioned game, exploring themes of violence, societal breakdown, and human desperation.

Fact: The film was initially banned in several countries due to its extreme violence. It is based on a novel by Koushun Takami, which was inspired by his fascination with delinquent youth culture.

Description: Prisoners are forced to fight to the death on a remote island for a live broadcast, exploring themes of exploitation, media sensationalism, and the dehumanization of violence.

Fact: The film was produced by WWE Studios, capitalizing on the popularity of wrestling star Steve Austin. It was criticized for its extreme violence but gained a cult following.

Description: Assassins compete in a deadly tournament with high stakes, emphasizing themes of survival, betrayal, and the commodification of violence for entertainment.

Fact: The film features a diverse international cast and was shot in various locations to create a global feel. It includes intense action sequences choreographed by stunt coordinators from 'The Bourne Identity.'

Description: Ordinary office workers are forced to kill each other in a controlled experiment, examining themes of survival, morality, and the breakdown of social order under extreme pressure.

Fact: The script was written by James Gunn, who also directed 'Guardians of the Galaxy.' The film was shot in Bogotá, Colombia, to keep production costs low.

Description: A dystopian society forces its citizens to participate in a deadly game for entertainment and control, highlighting themes of survival, oppression, and rebellion.

Fact: The book series was inspired by reality TV shows and the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. The author, Suzanne Collins, also wrote for children's TV shows before creating the series.

Description: A class struggle unfolds on a perpetually moving train, where the oppressed lower class revolts against the elite, mirroring themes of systemic violence and societal hierarchy.

Fact: The film is based on a French graphic novel called 'Le Transperceneige.' Director Bong Joon-ho initially wanted to make it as his first English-language film but faced delays.

Description: Teens trapped in a deadly maze must navigate its dangers to escape, reflecting themes of survival, mystery, and the struggle against unseen forces controlling their fate.

Fact: The film is based on the first book of a trilogy by James Dashner. The maze was built as a practical set, and the actors performed many of their own stunts.

Description: A group of strangers must solve deadly puzzles to survive, showcasing themes of psychological terror, manipulation, and the consequences of human ingenuity under duress.

Fact: The film's success led to a sequel, 'Escape Room: Tournament of Champions.' The production team built elaborate, immersive sets to enhance the tension.

Description: A grueling competition where participants must keep walking or face deadly consequences, exploring themes of endurance, psychological torment, and societal control.

Fact: The film is based on a Stephen King novel written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. It was in development for years before finally being adapted.