This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.

In the FOX 4 Screening Room: “The Purge: Anarchy,” “Sex Tape”

1. THE PURGE: ANARCHY (R)
Universal Pictures

RUSS
The low budget horror flick “The Purge” became a surprise hit in 2013. It took place in the near future, and depicted an America where murder is legal one night per year. Now we have the sequel, “The Purge: Anarchy.” Perhaps the only people who need to be purged are the folks who foisted this cinematic garbage on us. Unlike the first installment, the sequel “The Purge: Anarchy” is more of an action film, with lots of bloody mayhem as some innocent folks flee a shadowy military force that’s exterminating large numbers. It’s genuinely creepy, but in spite of its obvious pretentions, “The Purge: Anarchy” is nothing more than a celebration of violence masquerading as a social commentary.

RUSS: 1 Popcorn Bag
SHAWN: DID NOT SCREEN

2. SEX TAPE (R)
Sony Pictures

SHAWN
“Sex Tape” isn’t as raunchy as you might think considering the title. It’s actually a pretty conventional rom-com elevated by the two leads Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel. But it’s very funny and a lot of fun. Yes, the couple make a sex tape but there is nothing graphic. The tone stays playful. The jokes are plentiful. And Cameron Diaz continues to surprise as a comedic talent.

RUSS: DID NOT SCREEN
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
Also opening this week, “Venus in Fur” is director Roman Polanski’s adaptation of David Ives’ Tony Award-winning Broadway play. “Life Itself” is a documentary about the life of the late film critic, Roger Ebert. “Planes: Fire & Rescue” is Disney’s follow-up to its 2013 feature “Planes,” a spinoff of Pixar’s “Cars.”

Click here to receive weekly emails full of FOX 4′s entertainment news!

What’s our criteria for reviewing a film and awarding the popcorn bag ratings? Click here:  http://link.fox4kc.com/1fu5fMn

Follow on Twitter: @fox4kc @RussSimmons1 @sedwardskc