Purgatory
Purgatory

Movie spotlight

Purgatory

1998
Movie
120 min
Russian

This is a story about the battle for a hospital building in Grozny (Chechnya) in January 1995 between Russian Army forces and Chechen rebels supported by Arabian mujahideen and international mercenaries. Although the story is fictional, most of the characters are based on real-life prototypes and events are the compilation of true events during the Grozny Siege in the First Chechen War.

Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Google Users55%
Director: Uli EdelGenres: Western, Fantasy, Horror

Plot Summary

A group of outlaws, led by the ruthless "Sonny" Griffith, are gunned down and find themselves in a mysterious desert town called 'Purgatory'. This eerie settlement is populated by the spirits of fallen outlaws and is overseen by a silent, enigmatic sheriff. The outlaws soon discover that they must confront their past sins and fight for their souls against a biblical-level threat.

Critical Reception

Purgatory was met with mixed to negative reviews from critics, who found its blend of supernatural elements and Western tropes to be somewhat uneven and its narrative occasionally muddled. However, some praised its unique concept and visual style. Audience reception was similarly divided.

What Reviewers Say

  • Attempts an ambitious blend of Western and supernatural horror.

  • Visual style is notable, but the narrative can be confusing.

  • Offers some gore and a unique premise, but struggles with execution.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a mixed reception, with some appreciating the film's unique supernatural Western premise and visual flair. However, many viewers found the plot to be underdeveloped and the execution lacking, leading to a generally lukewarm response.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in and around Mescal, Arizona, a historic movie set location.

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