The Divide (2012) - Xavier Gens

A post-apocalyptic vision by Xavier Gens (Frontier(s) & Hitman ) about a group of nine tenants of a New York apartment who escape a nuclear attack by hiding out in the building's basement, which happens to be more like a bunker.   The film chronicles the passing days underground  as these nine survivors attempt to survive with horrific results.  Essentially it's a tale of hopelessness and it's indeed grim, unrelenting, and violent.   While watching this film, it becomes quite clear where Xavier Gens lies on the whole "Humanity is inherently good vs. evil debate", as slowly the characters succumb to their grotesque human nature.   This is a pretty insane experience that is quite disturbing in a lot of ways you could never have seen coming.  It's inventive, fast-paced, and a helluva a lot of fun if you enjoy this type of sick stuff like me.   The performances are also universally strong, from Rosanna Arquette to Michael Biehn, which it was awesome to see playing the "know it all" landlord.  Watching him chew and spit out tough guy dialogue was a lot of fun.   The one MAJOR weakness in this film is the dialogue, which at times is pretty "eye roll" inducing in it's direct nature, but considering Xavier Gens impressive direction and nihilistic viewpoint, I barely noticed the poor script, after the first 20 minutes.  This is the type of film that will most definitely become a cult classic.

7.75/10

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