The Purge is a media franchise centered on a series of dystopian action horror films distributed by Universal Pictures and produced by Blumhouse Productions and Platinum Dunes. The franchise is set in a future America where, for 12 continuous hours, all crime, including murder, is legal. The Purge is sanctioned by the U.S. Government, and weapons of class 4 and lower have been authorized for use during the Purge, while all other weapons are restricted. Government officials of ranking 10 have been granted immunity from the Purge and shall not be harmed. The franchise includes several films, including "The Purge" (2013) and "Purge: Election Year" (2016) . The films follow different characters and storylines, but all take place during the annual Purge. The Purge has been criticized for its violent content and its portrayal of class and race relations.