Today’s quick review: Underworld. For centuries vampires have waged a secret war against Lycans, hunting the werewolves to the brink of extinction. But Selene (Kate Beckinsale), a vampire warrior, suspects that the Lycans have one more trick up their sleeve. When Selene learns that the Lycans are after Michael Corvin (Scott Speedman), an ordinary human, she must defy the head of her family to find out why Michael is so important to the war.
Underworld is a dark sci-fi movie that pits vampires against werewolves in an unnamed modern city. The movie features polished visuals, a fairly good storyline, and plenty of gunslinging, monster-fighting action. The recipe is simple but effective: Selene uses her acrobatic prowess and automatic weapons to mow through scores of Lycans, all while trying to protect Michael long enough to get the answers she needs.
Underworld treads on familiar ground. It shares its tone, its visual style, and its basic premise with any number of other movies. What sets Underworld apart from the competition is its craftsmanship. The action is a satisfying blend of gunplay and superpowered brawling. The plot and setting are fleshed out in more detail than typical action fare. The visuals are polished and give the film a good sense of atmosphere.
Put together, these elements make Underworld a strong choice for fans of supernatural action. Underworld is an unusually well-rounded action movie that puts the tools at its disposal to good use. For action horror with more gore and more attitude, check out the Blade trilogy. For an action-oriented take on gothic horror with a comedic twist, check out Van Helsing. For an inferior take on a similar premise, check out I, Frankenstein.
7.0 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it the same for solid action, strong visuals, and a well-developed world.