Assassination Nation hits similar beats as The Purge films, centering on a “what if” scenario that sees entire communities lose their humanity. Assassination Nation has a leg up though because…like the featured teenagers…it capitalizes on style.

That style is most evident in the film’s cinematography. Smooth, long shot camera techniques permeate the movie, and the one scene that earnestly captured my attention was the home invasion sequence, where the camera glides from window to window as intruders close in on the unsuspecting occupants. It’s an impressive long shot that simultaneously builds immense suspense.

Here's the thing: the film tries to convey a sharp message about the people we think we know, the damning secrets they may be keeping, and who they really are. But without fully completing this thought, the finale does this somewhat abrupt pivot. With a final shot pitting an army of resolute women against a hoard of unruly men, the initial theme regarding humanity in general is exchanged for an aggressively feminist conclusion.

Gore and violence can't overpower these mismatched themes, and while there are things to admire, it's a film that’s too stylized to be mainstream, but too Purge to be a good indie.

Acting and Casting - 1 | Visual Effects and Editing - 2 | Story and Message - 1 | Entertainment Value - 1 | Music Score and Soundtrack - 1 | Reviewer's Preference - 0 | What does this mean?