Dive into the thrilling world of James DeMonaco’s movies and explore the compelling stories he has brought to life on the big screen. In this insightful roundup, we delve into the captivating tales of a director who knows how to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
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1. Jack (1996)
Jack is a 1996 comedy-drama directed by the legendary Francis Ford Coppola and starring Robin Williams. The film tells the heartwarming and unique story of a young boy, Jack, who suffers from a rare condition that causes him to age much faster than other children. Due to this, Jack looks like a 40-year-old man as he starts fifth grade at an elementary school after being homeschooled. Navigating social situations with kids and teachers is a tough task for Jack, but he manages to forge strong relationships with his classmates and learn valuable life lessons along the way. At the heart of the story is the deep and moving relationship between Jack and his father, played by Brian Kerwin, who is determined to support and protect his son through his unconventional childhood. Not to be taken too seriously, Jack offers plenty of laughs and emotional moments. With an outstanding cast and a talented director behind the camera, this film is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. Give this classic a watch to discover a truly endearing tale about the power of love and acceptance.
2. The Negotiator (1998)
Experience the pulse-pounding action of “The Negotiator” as this 1998 crime thriller takes you on a race against time. Directed by F. Gary Gray, the film stars the talented Samuel L. Jackson, Kevin Spacey, and David Morse. Jackson plays a skilled police negotiator accused of corruption and murder who, in an attempt to prove his innocence, takes hostages in a government office and engages in a high-stakes negotiation with the FBI. As the tension mounts, this intricate police conspiracy unfolds, drawing you deeper into the complex web of deceit and betrayal. With a runtime of 2 hours and 20 minutes, “The Negotiator” packs a powerful punch that is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.
3. Assault on Precinct 13 (2005)
“Assault on Precinct 13” is a gripping crime drama that unfolds on New Year’s Eve. Set in a remote police station that is cut off from the rest of the world due to a blizzard, the plot thickens as it unveils police corruption and deceit that goes to the very heart of law enforcement. Sergeant Jake Roenick, played by the charismatic Ethan Hawke, must rally his colleagues and unexpected prisoners together to protect themselves as they are besieged by other corrupt policemen dead-set on killing everyone inside to maintain their malicious deception. With Laurence Fishburne and Gabriel Byrne giving intense performances as compelling adversaries, this action-packed thriller is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, with twists and turns you won’t see coming. This R-rated film was directed by Jean-François Richet and has received various recognition, including one win and two nominations. “Assault on Precinct 13” is not only a suspenseful action flick but also a deep exploration of corrupted systems, the human will to fight back, and the lengths individuals will go in order to survive. If you’re in the mood for a snowy, high-impact thriller, this could be the perfect choice. Note: This movie may contain explicit violent content and language, including a police shootout.
4. Skinwalkers (2006)
“In the thrilling 2006 action-packed horror movie ‘Skinwalkers’, a young boy and his mother find themselves in the crosshairs of a deadly battle between two warring werewolf packs. Each pack has its own intentions and motives, but their common enemy is the half-breed werewolf, whose transformation is the key to turning the tides of the conflict. As the war escalates, our protagonists must navigate through the dangers of both camps and protect themselves from the relentless pursuit of their supernatural enemies.
5. Little New York (2009)
“Little New York” (2009) is a captivating crime dramedy centered around the lives of three interconnected residents of Staten Island in New York City. Directed by James DeMonaco and starring Ethan Hawke, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Seymour Cassel, the film offers an engaging blend of humor, crime, and emotional drama as it explores the struggles and ambitions of its central characters. Set in a colorful and diverse world, the story unfolds amidst a backdrop of various language influences, including English, French, Italian, and American Sign Language. The engaging plot captures the audience’s attention while delving into the personal lives and challenges of a mobster, a septic tank cleaner, and a so-called “tree hugger. “
With a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes, “Little New York” has garnered international recognition for its gripping storytelling and exceptional performances. The movie has received five nominations and holds an IMDb rating of 5.9.
Don’t miss out on this riveting tale that explores the complexities and triumphs of individuals navigating the treacherous streets of Staten Island. Come experience the unpredictable, laugh-out-loud comedy and high-stakes drama of “Little New York” — a film that will leave you captivated and wanting more.
6. The Purge (2013)
“The Purge” (2013) is a thrilling and suspenseful horror film that delves into the dark side of humanity during a 12-hour period when all crime is legal. Set in a near-future dystopian society, the story follows a wealthy family who find themselves in grave danger when they harbor the target of a murderous syndicate during this infamous night. As tensions rise and their security system is put to the test, the family must band together to survive the deadly chaos around them. With gripping performances from Ethan Hawke, Lena Headey, and Max Burkholder, “The Purge” explores themes of class differences, survival, and morality while keeping viewers engaged with its tense narrative and high-stakes action.
7. The Purge: Anarchy (2014)
In a dystopian near future, The Purge: Anarchy unleashes a terrifying new level of anarchy. It’s the darkest and deadliest Purge night yet. In a city descending into chaos, three groups of people are caught in the crosshairs. Frank Grillo, Carmen Ejogo, and Zach Gilford star in this heart-pounding thriller where they must fight to survive the night, trying to outrun the human hunting for humans. Experience the adrenaline-fueled suspense and witness the gruesome home invasion as the once peaceful Los Angeles is turned into a war-zoned nightmare. The Purge: Anarchy promises a non-stop, edge-of-your-seat journey through the darkest corners of the 2020s. Are you ready to live through The Purge? From the mind of James DeMonaco, the director who brought you the original Purge series, comes a new level of terror. And this time, the stakes are higher than ever. The Purge: Anarchy delivers a unique blend of Sci-Fi, action, and horror that will leave you questioning the world you live in. So buckle up, and prepare for the ultimate adrenaline rush. Because on Purge Night, anything can happen. And survival is not guaranteed. Don’t miss this riveting film experience that’s sure to redefine your perception of fear.
8. The Purge: Election Year (2016)
The Purge: Election Year is a chilling sci-fi horror film set in the near future, where the United States government allows a 12-hour period for all crime to be legal. In this year, a presidential candidate, Senator Charlie Roan, played by Elizabeth Mitchell, vows to eliminate the Purge. However, she becomes a target for death on Purge night due to her political stance. Enter former Police Sergeant Barnes, played by Frank Grillo, who takes on the challenge of securing Senator Roan’s safety during the Purge. With high-octane action sequences and thrilling showdowns, The Purge: Election Year is an intense political thriller that explores the horrifying consequences of a nation’s descent into violence. If you’re a fan of action with a touch of horror, this movie is not to be missed.
9. The First Purge (2018)
“The First Purge” is a chilling and intense sci-fi thriller that takes the “Purge” franchise to a whole new level. Set in a near-future America, the political landscape has taken a sinister turn with the rise of the New Founding Fathers of America, a radical new political party that conducts a horrifying experiment. They announce an intentionally lawless 12-hour period on Staten Island, with an irresistible offer of $5,000 for anyone brave enough to remain on the island. As chaos and brutality unfold, the film follows a group of residents, led by a charismatic young man, who find themselves caught in the crossfire. The story weaves together elements of abuse of power, social injustice, and resistance movements as these characters struggle to survive the night. “The First Purge” is a riveting exploration of civil unrest, political oppression, and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones and fight against injustice. Directed by Gerard McMurray and written by James DeMonaco, the movie stars an ensemble cast of Y’lan Noel, Lex Scott Davis, and Joivan Wade. With a $13 million budget, “The First Purge” was a financial success, grossing over $137 million worldwide. Fans of the previous films in the “Purge” franchise will not be disappointed by this thrilling addition to the series.
10. This Is the Night (2021)
“This Is the Night” is a captivating coming-of-age drama set in Staten Island during the summer of 1982. The story revolves around a teenage boy who embarks on a transformative journey, drawing the interest of his family. Packed with humor and heart, the film cleverly explores themes of self-discovery and the intricacies of family dynamics. With a talented cast including Madelyn Cline, Lucius Hoyos, and Chase Vacnin, and helmed by director James DeMonaco, this is an enthralling tale of growth and resilience that will resonate with viewers. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the ’80s, the film delves into the lives of its characters as they navigate the complexities of love, identity, and family. As the protagonist’s quest unfolds, he forms unexpected bonds, leading to moments of both laughter and emotional growth. A standout performance by the entire cast, coupled with the director’s impeccable storytelling, make this a compelling and unforgettable watch. This Is the Night is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, family, and coming-of-age in the vibrant summer of 1982. A perfect blend of drama, laughter, and heart, this film is sure to resonate with audiences and leave them reflecting on the transformative power of growth and resilience.
11. The Forever Purge (2021)
“The Forever Purge” takes the dystopian world of “The Purge” franchise to a new level, where society is in a state of civil war. As the title suggests, this is not just an annual event but a continuous cycle of carnage, with a brutal gang of lawless marauders defying the rules of the Purge and refusing to stop even at dawn.
