'The Divide' multiplies the claustrophobia

Unrated (graphic violence, strong language, sex, rape); 110 min.

There's nothing particularly novel about the grim view of humanity on display in cult French director Xavier Gens' brutal postapocalyptic horror show The Divide. But that doesn't make this overwrought but harrowing film feel like any less of a body blow to the soul.

The Divide kicks off in kinetic fashion as nuclear bombs rain on New York City and a crowd of panic-stricken high-rise dwellers is rushing down to the basement. Most don't make it, but those who do include the gruff building superintendent (Michael Biehn), a hysterical mom with a young child (Rosanna Arquette), a seemingly level-headed middle-age man (Courtney B. Vance), a take-charge young guy (Milo Ventimiglia, Heroes), his quiet half-brother (Ashton Holmes), and their rambunctious friend (Michael Eklund).

The resulting struggle begins with a power grab and descends into savagery and chaos as radiation sickness and fear take hold. Written by Karl Mueller and Eron Sheean, The Divide doesn't break new ground, but as shot by Gens ( Frontiers) and cinematographer Laurent Barès, it's creepily claustrophobic and drearily depressing.

Exclusive: Midnight Friday and Saturday at the Landmark Inwood, Dallas

-- Cary Darling