Director Eddie Alcazar has a gift for bringing to life the most mind-bending experimental films, and his latest Divinity is no different. In 2016, Alcazar released the grindhouse horror short film FUCKKKYOUUU, followed by his ambitious and equally mesmerizing feature, Perfect (2018). Unapologetic and defiantly bold, Divinity plays at the intersection of absurdity and video nasty – the place where Alcazar and his creativity thrive.

Set in an undefined time in the future, Divinity stars Stephen Dorff as Jaxxon Pierce, the heir of controversial scientist Sterling Pierce (Scott Bakula) who created a life-changing serum called “Divinity.” When used properly, the serum promises immortality to those who inject it. High off of his father’s legacy, Jaxxson’s determination to take “Divinity” to the next level reaches a fever pitch when his vision of the future – one where he lives forever – becomes ever closer to reality. However, his plans for domination become thwarted when two unnamed brothers (Moises Arias, Jason Genao) show up unannounced with a plan to capture Jaxxson and get their hands on “Divinity” for themselves.

Not far away from the impending abduction is a sorority of women, led by a domineering Ziva (Bella Thorne). Her appearance throughout the film acts as interludes to the story’s over-arcing structure, as she preaches about the destruction “Divinity” will cause to humanity. Another strong female character is the sex worker Nikita (Karrueche Tran), who initially finds herself at the home of Jaxxon Pierce to spend some two-on-one time with the brothers before accidentally inserting herself into their twisted game. 

In addition to the acceptably kooky performances from all involved, the music is perhaps the biggest standout – which says a lot given the overwhelming distractions on screen at any given time. DJ Muggs and composer Dean Hurley, best known for his collaborations with David Lynch, create eerie, drone-heavy soundscapes that perfectly encapsulate Alcazar’s bizarre world. Aiding in the film’s visual aesthetic is cinematographer Danny Hiele, who previously worked in a similar 16mm black-and-white fashion on FUCKKKYOUUU. The crunchy quality feels as if it’s been recovered from a 70’s era time capsule, like a dirty little secret that should have never seen the light of day.

To call Divinity a wild ride would be an understatement. This is a lo-fi, mind-melting, perverted affair. Executive-produced by Steven Soderbergh, Divinity is another successful demonstration of Eddie Alcazar’s unique and singular vision.

This review originally ran on January 30, 2023, during the Sundance Film Festival

In LA theaters on Friday, 10/20, and Nationwide on 11/3.