So, given the low budget the effects were tolerable and the acting was ok.
The writers really missed an opportunity to share the Good News with the audience.
Neither God, nor Jesus are mentioned, only a reference of Him. If a non-believer watches this they might not get the reference. Again, a missed opportunity.
A "tree" is talked about and shown, I'm not sure if this is suppose to be the Tree of Life from Genesis, or the cross. Blood is also mentioned, but again I'm not sure if this is referring to the blood that Christ shed for all.
I do appreciate that the writers showed how the occult will lead to demonic influence and manifestations.
As for the demons using the Lord's name in vain, scripture tells us that demons tremble when they hear the name of God, or Jesus. Something else could have been said instead.
Obviously scripture wasn't used in the writing since there are blatant fallacies.
I was looking forward to a Christian film, but watched a Sci-fi/ fantasy instead.
I pray that if anyone is wanting more they turn to the Bible and don't take this as facts.
God bless
33 Reviews
I tried really hard to enjoy this.
dylanstaxes6 May 2021
I have a weird thing for Christian genre movies. I enjoy a large dose of mediocre art mixed with self righteousness and problematic logic. But this movie beat me. I got about an hour through. I survived the sermons about having babies. I enjoyed the sad spiritual warfare cgi. This movie was just painful. I watch genre movies, not family dramas set in living rooms. It wasn't the Christianity that got me. Or the lack of quality. Or the baby sermons. It was the Hallmark channel feel that half of the movie had. I couldn't do it.
Awful, just terrible... with some good special effects.
Beladona_1315 September 2013
My wife and I didn't make it more than halfway through. Terrible lighting, one actress' face is a solid shadow while the other has a shiny glare on her forehead! Atrocious acting; telegraphing lines, stiff movement, awkward pauses, etc. Some of the CGI was sub par, but most was brilliant. The plot was thin, a worn out story told to death... I just can't find much to say about this film that's positive.
Not even one of the characters made you feel any sort of empathy. It's tough to identify with a character who is wooden and unnatural. The first half of the movie seems bent on pushing the message that all couples must breed. I understand this is a faith based film, but come on! Why push this agenda in a film made for entertainment!
In summary, Don't waste your time on this one!
Not even one of the characters made you feel any sort of empathy. It's tough to identify with a character who is wooden and unnatural. The first half of the movie seems bent on pushing the message that all couples must breed. I understand this is a faith based film, but come on! Why push this agenda in a film made for entertainment!
In summary, Don't waste your time on this one!
Low-budget Dark Supernatural Drama Brings Out the Angry Atheist!
betchaareoffendedeasily19 February 2019
If "Divination" is Christian propaganda, than I guess "A Dark Song" is super propaganda for Ordo Templi Orientis. Of course, I don't believe either are necessarily propaganda, I'm just making a point. When a film is about something you don't like just scream "PROPAGANDA" and "FUNDAMENTALISM" to discredit it! Works like magic, or so you would think Atheist think. To further address this point before I get into my review: This film represents NOTHING about real fundamentalism, but atheist love to use that word as a "win all battles" weapon, sorry, you lose.
This film, if you are an actual Christian, isn't at all Christian. While it contains many themes borrowed from the Bible, it make no mention of the Bible, God, Jesus, or salvation. The closest it comes is an entity called "The Perfect One", but outside of mentioning the creation of angels, it really doesn't resemble anything from the Bible. Whereas "A Dark Song" literally goes painstaikingly through a REAl Allestair Crowley Ritual. My point is, don't call something something it isn't just because it contains themes you are uncomfortable with. As a real Christian I find "Divination" repugnant on multiple levels, simply because it spits on the Bible just as much as "A Dark Song" does. It borrows heavily from "This Present Darkness" by Frank Peretti. Pentacostals love to use Frank Peretti's book as a jumping off point for spritual warfare and it has FAR more in common with that book than the Bible.
I found this to be a relatively well-done low-budget supernatural drama regarding the battle between good and evil. I think the beliefs put forth in it are utter hogwash, and certainly this does not, as already stated, resemble anything close to real and orthodox Christianity. In reality, Christians cannot see the supernatural realm like some people claim, such as: Mike Bickle, Bob Jones, Cindy Jacob, Benny Hinn, etc, etc, and FYI none of those represent genuine Christinity, they represent the NAR or WoF teachings, that's it.
I actually felt the dialog in here was somewhat realistic, the problem was, much of the acting as very wooden. The best acting came from those playing Jason, Joshua, and Dee. Lisa Coronado as Dee probably had the best acting overall, and she has the longest resume of anyone on this film, so I think that bolsters that.
Unfortunately the direction is dull, the camera work is dull, and the editing is just not great. There are a whole lot of confusing cuts and confusing dialog early in this film, particularly revolving around The bald guy and the blonde character, her involvement with other characters and the primary plot seems to be there, but its not.
The fight seems while interesting, are sometimes a bit cheesy due to the effects overlaying the scenes, the best fight seen involves the least effects and while performed a bit wooden, the actually choreography is pretty decent, coming from someone who knows martial arts, I thought it was not bad.
On the whole, this is NOT a Christian movie, and it absolutely not fundamentalist in any way shape or form, and though it certainly has a good versus evil theme, and is not positive about the occult, it does not contain anything explicitly Christian. Even many New Agers believe in angels and demons, that isn't exclusive to Christians. If that bugs you go watch "A Dark Song" instead, that movie has some equally cheesy moments, and was equally convoluted at times, even though it's a better film. I only bring that movie up to make a point that the primary arguments made against this film are silly and baseless. Its not a bad film for what it is, and the script is honestly pretty good, it just isn't as well executed as it could be.
God Bless ~Amy
This film, if you are an actual Christian, isn't at all Christian. While it contains many themes borrowed from the Bible, it make no mention of the Bible, God, Jesus, or salvation. The closest it comes is an entity called "The Perfect One", but outside of mentioning the creation of angels, it really doesn't resemble anything from the Bible. Whereas "A Dark Song" literally goes painstaikingly through a REAl Allestair Crowley Ritual. My point is, don't call something something it isn't just because it contains themes you are uncomfortable with. As a real Christian I find "Divination" repugnant on multiple levels, simply because it spits on the Bible just as much as "A Dark Song" does. It borrows heavily from "This Present Darkness" by Frank Peretti. Pentacostals love to use Frank Peretti's book as a jumping off point for spritual warfare and it has FAR more in common with that book than the Bible.
I found this to be a relatively well-done low-budget supernatural drama regarding the battle between good and evil. I think the beliefs put forth in it are utter hogwash, and certainly this does not, as already stated, resemble anything close to real and orthodox Christianity. In reality, Christians cannot see the supernatural realm like some people claim, such as: Mike Bickle, Bob Jones, Cindy Jacob, Benny Hinn, etc, etc, and FYI none of those represent genuine Christinity, they represent the NAR or WoF teachings, that's it.
I actually felt the dialog in here was somewhat realistic, the problem was, much of the acting as very wooden. The best acting came from those playing Jason, Joshua, and Dee. Lisa Coronado as Dee probably had the best acting overall, and she has the longest resume of anyone on this film, so I think that bolsters that.
Unfortunately the direction is dull, the camera work is dull, and the editing is just not great. There are a whole lot of confusing cuts and confusing dialog early in this film, particularly revolving around The bald guy and the blonde character, her involvement with other characters and the primary plot seems to be there, but its not.
The fight seems while interesting, are sometimes a bit cheesy due to the effects overlaying the scenes, the best fight seen involves the least effects and while performed a bit wooden, the actually choreography is pretty decent, coming from someone who knows martial arts, I thought it was not bad.
On the whole, this is NOT a Christian movie, and it absolutely not fundamentalist in any way shape or form, and though it certainly has a good versus evil theme, and is not positive about the occult, it does not contain anything explicitly Christian. Even many New Agers believe in angels and demons, that isn't exclusive to Christians. If that bugs you go watch "A Dark Song" instead, that movie has some equally cheesy moments, and was equally convoluted at times, even though it's a better film. I only bring that movie up to make a point that the primary arguments made against this film are silly and baseless. Its not a bad film for what it is, and the script is honestly pretty good, it just isn't as well executed as it could be.
God Bless ~Amy
Christian Propaganda
tottek-930-37059310 June 2017
This is a Christian Propaganda movie.
In addition, its also a terrible movie.. really bad!
It would be interesting to hear where money to this movie came from. And in addition, also, as the actors seem not to have any training, and no passion for acting whatsoever, what their regular occupation is.
Perhaps they work for a Christian Propaganda Company?
I guess, only God knows!
In addition, its also a terrible movie.. really bad!
It would be interesting to hear where money to this movie came from. And in addition, also, as the actors seem not to have any training, and no passion for acting whatsoever, what their regular occupation is.
Perhaps they work for a Christian Propaganda Company?
I guess, only God knows!
Wow. So Fundy. Such propaganda.
vladinator-453-5047267 September 2014
This movie could have had potential. The premise is potentially interesting, if you like good vs evil semi-religious yet psychological drama. Sadly, this movie is mostly one half unsubtle Christian Fundy brainwashing, and one half fear mongering. That combined with some of the worst acting, and terrible dialog ever seen and heard lead you through a lackluster and completely uninteresting movie. It has uneven special effects (Seriously, one second it looks almost as good as Sin City, the next it looks like 60's era Dr Who stick figure effects), with the most unimaginative cringe worthy unbelievable fake movie fighting known to man. But wait - there's more! You have really awful transitions, hackneyed plot, incomprehensible segues between scenes in and out of time, leading to the typical sort of finale that only the small fear controlled mind of the Fundy could appreciate, or like. In short, you really want that 98 minutes of your life back if you can get it. Christian Fundy garbage at it's absolute worst.
Total letdown!
zepheringram-166758 November 2018
This film was not true to biblical account, had robot-like acting, bleeped out the word "hell" but let the name of God be taken in vain repeatedly. I viewed this video on pureflix, and I'm totally disappointed that they would include this film in their line up. Waiting to hear back from them. The film lacked a foundation strong enough to build a story on. It falls into no genre because it lacks any credible acting or truth. So disappointing!
Christian fantasy on an indie budget
Leofwine_draca1 February 2018
Warning: Spoilers
DIVINATION is a Christian fantasy made on a tiny budget. The whole thing was obviously a labour of love for the writer/director, but it barely passes muster as a proper movie and I found it frankly embarrassing. The subject matter involves high-brow metaphysical concepts and the war between the angels above and the demons below, but it's realised by just a handful of stilted performers and a guy with a video camera. The CGI 'holy' scenes are incredibly bad and the dragging pace will have you repeatedly yawning. As with many Christian films, this is also far too preachy for its own good.
Overall interesting and entertaining but unfortunately has serious errors
avocadess8 April 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Clearly the message of this film was supposed to be how God, the angels and Jesus Christ fight and how the Devil and his minions do their best to keep people from Jesus Christ.
However, that is all implied and would only be known by someone who was familiar with Christianity.
And someone familiar with Christianity (and more than I wish I knew from personal experience with the devils or demons), I feel this movie failed deeply in giving a true message.
First of all, the protagonist's father was a pastor, talked about "the Blood" and committed suicide because he LOST the battle. That would never happen without a whole different angle of the story showing how his father had "turned on" God. The power of the blood of Jesus by calling on His name can and will work to defeat the Enemy. This film made strong implications that God and Satan are equals and that neither can easily win the fight. The fact is, once a person takes on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:12-18 in King James Bible) there is NO CONTEST.
Second, one of the "givens" in the storyline is that it is a good thing and a "spiritual talent" to be able to see the spirit world. In the film the late father and protagonist son had this "gift." I am not enough of an expert to say I know 100% -- but I am convinced that 99.999% of the time (at minimum) being able to see fallen angels, etc. in the spirit world is NOT a gift that is God-given. It is however something Satan gives some but not all of his slaves (humans). And personally I think that is rather a blessing that God spares us that except in very special instances seen in the Bible.
Thirdly, while the movie shows people doing rituals in the black arts it never shows Christians praying, worshiping, loving and walking a Christian walk.
All a person can really "learn" from this film is that divination is a dangerous practice that allows evil spirits a level of control over one's life (good), but so much is left out on how to take the opposite track that I find the film very disappointing. Even the "protecting angels" were very "off." I could see putting "angels" for the dark side in the relationships God's angels had here -- but the way they were shown as so frequently confused and ineffective, (the angels of God), that just wasn't true.
Oh, and using a "bleeding tree" really grossed me out. Obviously a reference to Jesus shedding his blood on the tree (cross), Jesus does NOT hang on the cross in perpetuity so that we can all go there and mop up some healing blood. YUCK. No. He suffered, died and resurrected. He is currently at the right hand of the Father and is already named King of Kings. "Bleeding tree" my foot -- (although sad to say I think certain sects of religions that call themselves Christian perpetuate the idea of some kind of eternal crucifixion).
Creative, but no. Just no. Although it was interesting to watch -- and I thought several of the actors were very good -- I will not want to watch it again, nor would I recommend it to anyone since it really makes a mess of how things really work on some very key points.
I do hope to see more films with better clarity from this filmmaker, IF it will be based more on the biblical (and actual) truths.
However, that is all implied and would only be known by someone who was familiar with Christianity.
And someone familiar with Christianity (and more than I wish I knew from personal experience with the devils or demons), I feel this movie failed deeply in giving a true message.
First of all, the protagonist's father was a pastor, talked about "the Blood" and committed suicide because he LOST the battle. That would never happen without a whole different angle of the story showing how his father had "turned on" God. The power of the blood of Jesus by calling on His name can and will work to defeat the Enemy. This film made strong implications that God and Satan are equals and that neither can easily win the fight. The fact is, once a person takes on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:12-18 in King James Bible) there is NO CONTEST.
Second, one of the "givens" in the storyline is that it is a good thing and a "spiritual talent" to be able to see the spirit world. In the film the late father and protagonist son had this "gift." I am not enough of an expert to say I know 100% -- but I am convinced that 99.999% of the time (at minimum) being able to see fallen angels, etc. in the spirit world is NOT a gift that is God-given. It is however something Satan gives some but not all of his slaves (humans). And personally I think that is rather a blessing that God spares us that except in very special instances seen in the Bible.
Thirdly, while the movie shows people doing rituals in the black arts it never shows Christians praying, worshiping, loving and walking a Christian walk.
All a person can really "learn" from this film is that divination is a dangerous practice that allows evil spirits a level of control over one's life (good), but so much is left out on how to take the opposite track that I find the film very disappointing. Even the "protecting angels" were very "off." I could see putting "angels" for the dark side in the relationships God's angels had here -- but the way they were shown as so frequently confused and ineffective, (the angels of God), that just wasn't true.
Oh, and using a "bleeding tree" really grossed me out. Obviously a reference to Jesus shedding his blood on the tree (cross), Jesus does NOT hang on the cross in perpetuity so that we can all go there and mop up some healing blood. YUCK. No. He suffered, died and resurrected. He is currently at the right hand of the Father and is already named King of Kings. "Bleeding tree" my foot -- (although sad to say I think certain sects of religions that call themselves Christian perpetuate the idea of some kind of eternal crucifixion).
Creative, but no. Just no. Although it was interesting to watch -- and I thought several of the actors were very good -- I will not want to watch it again, nor would I recommend it to anyone since it really makes a mess of how things really work on some very key points.
I do hope to see more films with better clarity from this filmmaker, IF it will be based more on the biblical (and actual) truths.
plss don't watch this film unless you like pain
mikeljalynn1 September 2020
Now i decided to watch this movie with low expectations, and i was right to assume that this movie would be absolutely pure hot garbage. this movie gave me an std, that's how bad it was! the graphics, the acting, the camera angles!!! in the words of flight " what you doing hold the angles right 🐬🐬🐬" they did the listen to flight. but i think the worse thing about this movie was the lead actress' forehead, my god was that thing huge!! it distracted me the whole movie, but not enough i was steal
able to pay attention to the disgusting neck hairs on the lead actor. the movie is so bad i don't even know the characters names!! moral of the story, don't be white
Awesome movie
fernanda_green31 December 2013
This is a great Christian-led movie for the whole family to enjoy. It conveys a deep message and open viewers' eyes to the spiritual world. Unfortunately, Christian related activities (i.e. music, videos, etc.) are no longer popular publicly. Since new campaigns have been endorsed to terminate Christianity and bring rise to the co-existence of all religions, Christian events may no longer be exhibited or promoted at large-- as it may be offensive to other cultural backgrounds and religious affiliations. Having said that, Christianity must now find a new way to captivate the eyes and ears of all peoples -- especially those who are not believers. What I like the most about this movie is that it wisely describes Christianity in a subtle way. One may not hear the word, "Jesus," but he or she will surely hear: "The blood, the tree of life, the bleeding tree" -- symbolism conveying "Christ." All in all, I love this film and would love to see more movies like it.
Fun movie, but poisonous too.
marcsharc1 November 2013
Sometimes the truth is black and white. This movie is entertaining and has some really good special effects but there are some real flaws that hamper it. If you understand this was written from a fundamentalist Christian viewpoint you can forgive its narrow view of reality and enjoy the movie for the angel battle scenes alone. I thought the actors were competent and entertaining too.
However, the author presents the practice of divination as evil and a gateway to other evils. Many non-fundamentalist families, students of history and the occult would disagree with this narrow and fear-dominated approach to understanding man's interest in and practice of actual divination. I'm sure the author imagines the people who watch this movie will be Christians and who better to deceive with his paranoia about other systems of spirituality. I agree with the author that fear can be very damaging, but beyond that, the movie bases its premise on the uneducated fundamentalist Christian world-view. As usual, fundamentalist Christians see no other path but their own and fear everything else.
However, the author presents the practice of divination as evil and a gateway to other evils. Many non-fundamentalist families, students of history and the occult would disagree with this narrow and fear-dominated approach to understanding man's interest in and practice of actual divination. I'm sure the author imagines the people who watch this movie will be Christians and who better to deceive with his paranoia about other systems of spirituality. I agree with the author that fear can be very damaging, but beyond that, the movie bases its premise on the uneducated fundamentalist Christian world-view. As usual, fundamentalist Christians see no other path but their own and fear everything else.
Waking Up
ellisonedie28 May 2019
I love this movie. One of the biggest lies told and used throughout this movie was I sent believe in this stuff, it's not real. That is the biggest and best lie demonic forces hope we believe. People often call us uneducated which is totally not the case. I do hold a college degree. I am an avid historian. So the question remains if you are wrong what will you lose but if I'm wrong, what will I lose? So you see, I do believe and I do believe in the power and blood of Jesus. Just like the movie however, no one will go against your free will. Just please dont put down those who do have faith. As Christians true Christians would never put you down for your beliefs. We may not think they are right, but would never belittle you and call you uneducated. FREE WILL IS A GOD-GIVEN GIFT. HE WONT MAKE U BELIEVE BUT ONE DAY EVERY EYE WILL SEE.
It was something do for a bit in the evening
hilary_mae-912-805611 December 2020
Eye-Opening
Sefardicus17 February 2020
These kind of films always walk a fine line between opening up the eyes of those who want to see, and shutting up these of those who do not believe.
For those who wish to see, and are spiritually-inclined, it is a film from where you can extract the ounce from the pound and see!
I believe...
For those who wish to see, and are spiritually-inclined, it is a film from where you can extract the ounce from the pound and see!
I believe...
Superb open minded explanatory of metaphysical warfare
thermop5711 January 2014
This film is for OPEN MINDED people, those who really do question why things happen, coupled with the understanding that 'We are not alone.", that the physical world is not all there is to 'life'.
What amazed me about the story line is that it provided a 'real world' example of how people who believe themselves to be 'open minded', but very secular minded politically, however also believing in a general form of 'spirituality', end up experiencing things that a 'generic spirituality' cannot explain.
These folks usually believe that ANY spirituality is a good thing, so long as Jesus is not mentioned, or the Bible, unless comments about either are in some form derogatory.
This film asks many questions of such people, and the answers are not comforting to them; because the film proves that by worldly standards, it is 'ok' to hate people who follow Jesus.
The fine script writing does this without mentioning Jesus, or the Bible, even once: the writers did it by noting books and beliefs CONTRARY to biblical Christianity, and emphasized the popular mindset of 'believe in anything, because 'whatever' you believe, it will be right for you'.
Acting is really good, foreshadowing is good, CGI (Computer Graphics) is superb, and all of it fits together nicely.
This film won't make Atheists happy, nor will it put a smile on Social Progressives faces, or the faces of other anti-biblical Christian folks. However, IF you've got an open mind, enough to give what the Bible has to say a chance, the SAME chance as any other religious text, then this film is for you.
Should you be just another anti-Jesus zealot, this film will NOT please you.
Cheers.
What amazed me about the story line is that it provided a 'real world' example of how people who believe themselves to be 'open minded', but very secular minded politically, however also believing in a general form of 'spirituality', end up experiencing things that a 'generic spirituality' cannot explain.
These folks usually believe that ANY spirituality is a good thing, so long as Jesus is not mentioned, or the Bible, unless comments about either are in some form derogatory.
This film asks many questions of such people, and the answers are not comforting to them; because the film proves that by worldly standards, it is 'ok' to hate people who follow Jesus.
The fine script writing does this without mentioning Jesus, or the Bible, even once: the writers did it by noting books and beliefs CONTRARY to biblical Christianity, and emphasized the popular mindset of 'believe in anything, because 'whatever' you believe, it will be right for you'.
Acting is really good, foreshadowing is good, CGI (Computer Graphics) is superb, and all of it fits together nicely.
This film won't make Atheists happy, nor will it put a smile on Social Progressives faces, or the faces of other anti-biblical Christian folks. However, IF you've got an open mind, enough to give what the Bible has to say a chance, the SAME chance as any other religious text, then this film is for you.
Should you be just another anti-Jesus zealot, this film will NOT please you.
Cheers.
Neat movie
pinkbows-7320610 April 2020
Not going to say it's a great movie, but it had some really nice elements, decent special effects compared to most movies on this level, some creepy critters. And overall the plot was pretty neat. The acting wasn't as bad as I expected either.
Worth a watch I'd say.
Worth a watch I'd say.
Nice Portrayal
danyread23 November 2015
This movie is a good reminder of how many people live at the mercy of fear and demonic attack, and it shows how simple it can be to come under protection through the blood covenant we have in Christ. He holds the keys! This is one of the most difficult subjects to portray, and it's done with respect and reverence. The acting and cast are great.
I love the way the writer treats those who are sensitive to spiritual awareness. We have a gift, and it's something that can be tarnished and perverted, but it's definitely God- given and can do much in the service of the Most High.
I'd be hesitant to show this to young children or anyone who might become enthralled with the desire to see angels and demons. We need to be more enthralled with the One who makes it all possible for us to live in joy and peace, love and prosperity. He has a name and He is still alive today. His power is what gives the authority to those we see at work here. But we can meet Him, too! No need to settle for the servants when we can enjoy the Lord of the house. However, this film also has a broad appeal.
This film has a lot of intensity, parents choose wisely.
I love the way the writer treats those who are sensitive to spiritual awareness. We have a gift, and it's something that can be tarnished and perverted, but it's definitely God- given and can do much in the service of the Most High.
I'd be hesitant to show this to young children or anyone who might become enthralled with the desire to see angels and demons. We need to be more enthralled with the One who makes it all possible for us to live in joy and peace, love and prosperity. He has a name and He is still alive today. His power is what gives the authority to those we see at work here. But we can meet Him, too! No need to settle for the servants when we can enjoy the Lord of the house. However, this film also has a broad appeal.
This film has a lot of intensity, parents choose wisely.
Excitiing,definitely worth watching!
FanGirl712 December 2011
I watched this film with my teenage kids we all loved it. In fact my 15 year old son asked to watch it again to show his friend and we all watched it a second time and my daughter said as we finished "I love this film I could watch it again" The special effects are really great for an Indy film and there are some beautifully shot scenes but the story is really what stands out. It is a great story of choices and consequences. It holds powerful spiritual truths with out ever being preachy. And you really care about the characters! It is an intriguing film that captures the imagination. Definitely worth watching!! This is a great example of non Hollywood film makers getting it right!
Be Careful Who--or What--You Let Into Your House
ksj87023 September 2013
Warning: Spoilers
DIVINATION is a supernatural thriller about the unseen spiritual warfare that is constantly raging all around us, whether we want to admit it or not. Newlyweds Jason and Jessica certainly aren't privy to the otherworldly battle that is taking place inside their home, nor to the efforts of their guardian angel, Joshua, to keep the forces of evil at bay. All the young couple wants to do is build a happy life together and start a family. But Jason is harboring a dark secret that is eating away at his psyche like a cancer, and all the while unseen powers are unfurling evil plans for not only the man and his wife, but for their potential children as well.
DIVINATION is one of those movies that flies in under the radar and then goes off like an atomic bomb. I had never heard of it prior to its September Redbox debut, but while it may be an unheralded film the lack of fanfare makes it all the more impressive. No, the cast doesn't feature any "name" actors, it's apparently director Ben Pohl's first feature, and it's fairly obvious the movie was produced on a small budget.
None of that matters. The acting is solid from everyone involved, and the performers do a great job of living out the script. As for the screenplay, it's simply excellent. The story wrestles with common, everyday issues like familial trust, commitment, failure, and fear, but reminds us all that even our most mundane decisions can have eternal consequences not only for ourselves but for those we love. Dialog is spot-on and imminently believable. And first-time director Pohl proves himself surprisingly adept at dramatic storytelling and atmosphere. There are some really stunning set pieces and more than a few shocking moments. While DIVINATION isn't really a horror story, there are some genuinely frightening scenes, though Pohl is thankfully smart enough to pull back before the chills overwhelm the rest of the plot.
The only real weakness in the movie is evident in its action scenes. While Pohl does a great job of framing the several duels between angels and demons in a stunning ethereal ambiance, the actual action choreography is at times a little rough around the edges. One gets the impression Pohl wants his action scenes to look like similar moments from THE MATRIX, but given the low budget that's just not possible. Still, this is a minor quibble, and overall the production values—including the special effects—are quite good, especially considering the obvious financial limitations.
DIVINATION is a terrific and highly inspirational film that is frankly one of the best movies of 2013, low profile notwithstanding. Its script is insightful and full of Judeo-Christian imagery, and while Jesus Christ is never specifically mentioned there is a major plot point that clearly symbolizes the Son of God (you'll know it when you see it). The cast all play their roles with sincerity and conviction, and the direction is creative and rises above its low budget. DIVINATION is one of those films that will not only entertain you, but perhaps make you take certain aspects of your life a little more seriously. Our decisions matter, and Good and Evil are not only real, but a part of our daily lives. How we react to that is—as for Jason and Jessica—up to us.
DIVINATION is one of those movies that flies in under the radar and then goes off like an atomic bomb. I had never heard of it prior to its September Redbox debut, but while it may be an unheralded film the lack of fanfare makes it all the more impressive. No, the cast doesn't feature any "name" actors, it's apparently director Ben Pohl's first feature, and it's fairly obvious the movie was produced on a small budget.
None of that matters. The acting is solid from everyone involved, and the performers do a great job of living out the script. As for the screenplay, it's simply excellent. The story wrestles with common, everyday issues like familial trust, commitment, failure, and fear, but reminds us all that even our most mundane decisions can have eternal consequences not only for ourselves but for those we love. Dialog is spot-on and imminently believable. And first-time director Pohl proves himself surprisingly adept at dramatic storytelling and atmosphere. There are some really stunning set pieces and more than a few shocking moments. While DIVINATION isn't really a horror story, there are some genuinely frightening scenes, though Pohl is thankfully smart enough to pull back before the chills overwhelm the rest of the plot.
The only real weakness in the movie is evident in its action scenes. While Pohl does a great job of framing the several duels between angels and demons in a stunning ethereal ambiance, the actual action choreography is at times a little rough around the edges. One gets the impression Pohl wants his action scenes to look like similar moments from THE MATRIX, but given the low budget that's just not possible. Still, this is a minor quibble, and overall the production values—including the special effects—are quite good, especially considering the obvious financial limitations.
DIVINATION is a terrific and highly inspirational film that is frankly one of the best movies of 2013, low profile notwithstanding. Its script is insightful and full of Judeo-Christian imagery, and while Jesus Christ is never specifically mentioned there is a major plot point that clearly symbolizes the Son of God (you'll know it when you see it). The cast all play their roles with sincerity and conviction, and the direction is creative and rises above its low budget. DIVINATION is one of those films that will not only entertain you, but perhaps make you take certain aspects of your life a little more seriously. Our decisions matter, and Good and Evil are not only real, but a part of our daily lives. How we react to that is—as for Jason and Jessica—up to us.
I'm giving this eight stars but a couple of those are for effort.
healingpampered26 July 2017
OK... so my husband has been bugging me to watch this for a long time. I have been resisting because I thought it would probably be terrible. However, when I watched the trailer I was impressed by the special effects. So tonight we finally watched Divination and you know what... it wasn't bad at all. I'm giving this eight stars but a couple of those are for effort. It's easy to see that the budget was relatively small for this production and that the actors didn't have a ton of experience, but despite that, the film hangs together pretty well. Let's just say I was never bored, and I was entertained throughout. I'm not going to get into a theological breakdown of the Christian aspect here... and I'm sure some would have quibbles just based on that. But for the budget and experience of the cast/crew, I have to give them a hand for the job they pulled off. I noticed a lot of little things, like the lighting, sound production, fight choreography and stunt coordination. A+ on all of those. If you are trying to compare the fight scenes to a $100 million dollar movie then you will be disappointed but this cast actually did a decent job. During a scene where the two main characters are running through a forest at night, the lighting actually works well. Lighting a scene at night is not easy. You have to know what you're doing.
Also, as mentioned, the highlight of this film really is the special effects, which help to ratchet up the tension of the drama and are pretty fun to watch. No, this film is not for everyone. If you are adamantly opposed to a Christian message in films, you won't like this. If you have a problem with low(er) budget movies and acting that's not top-notch then you also might want to skip it. If you don't mind those things, give Divination a shot. We were pleasantly surprised by how good this was and are really happy that we watched it! My husband says "I absolutely loved it! I liked watching the spiritual realm be visualized on screen."
Also, as mentioned, the highlight of this film really is the special effects, which help to ratchet up the tension of the drama and are pretty fun to watch. No, this film is not for everyone. If you are adamantly opposed to a Christian message in films, you won't like this. If you have a problem with low(er) budget movies and acting that's not top-notch then you also might want to skip it. If you don't mind those things, give Divination a shot. We were pleasantly surprised by how good this was and are really happy that we watched it! My husband says "I absolutely loved it! I liked watching the spiritual realm be visualized on screen."
Perettiesque
ds8090921 May 2017
White suburban apocalyptic. Family values under attack! Danger! Danger! What they did not spend on actors they did not spend on imagination either. OK, special effects are kind of fun. But "bird wings" on angels? Have some original thought guys. Again we find a "Christian" film that cannot or dare not delve into the subtleties of the spiritual life. Sad.
Cheesy effects but a great story
daglow-821-6882328 January 2020
This was a low budget film, because of the effects, but it was well written and the acting was good. One actor stood out - it was Fear! His rant about how humans can do things more devastating than he can every imagine is epic!!!
It lost 2 stars because of the effects but story wise, this is generational!
It lost 2 stars because of the effects but story wise, this is generational!
Superb!
fergusonr-0912719 June 2018
I just finished watching this movie and was very favorably impressed with all of it. It deals with what I consider to be spiritual reality, and yes I believe in Jesus and the Bible, have for decades. I would enthusiastically recommend this movie to anyone who would really like some truth about spiritual things. If not, it is still good as entertainment. Is it a $200 million blockbuster? No. Is it filled with A-list stars? No. Is it worth your time? Yes. Definitely.
Great Watch!
abcizdaman21 May 2020
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