Today’s quick review: Underworld: Evolution. Following the upheaval in vampire society caused by Lucian’s bid for power, Selene (Kate Beckinsale), a renegade vampire warrior, and Michael (Scott Speedman), a vampire-werewolf hybrid, strike out on their own. But when Marcus (Tony Curran), the first vampire, awakens from his slumber, Selene and Michael must stop him before he can free his brother William, the first werewolf, from his ancient prison.
Underworld: Evolution is an action horror movie set in a world where vampires and werewolves have been warring for centuries. Underworld: Evolution delves into the beginnings of the conflict and the repercussions they have in the present. The sequel follows the same recipe as the original: vampires, werewolves, and lots of bullets, all backed by a brooding atmosphere, reasonably advanced CGI, and a well-developed story.
Underworld: Evolution is a direct sequel to the original Underworld. The story picks up hours after the end of the first movie and deals with several of its dangling plot threads, including the origins of the two species. This gives Evolution an edge over the typical action movie when it comes to plot. However, lots of recap and mediocre payoff keep it from taking full advantage of its head start, making its story a step down from the first film.
As for action, Underworld: Evolution delivers. The fight scenes are not as elaborate or as varied as the first film, thanks in part to the shrinking supporting cast, but there’s plenty of gunplay and monster time to be had. The film plays fast and loose with the established rules regarding werewolves and vampires, but not enough to detract from its big hits and liberal gore. For superpowered action, Underworld: Evolution is a good pick.
Fans of Underworld will enjoy the sequel. Though a slight step down in terms of action and story, Underworld: Evolution is a worthy successor with much of the craftsmanship of the original. Give it a shot when you’re in the mood for straightforward action. But steer clear until you’ve seen the first film; a newcomer to the series will have a hard time piecing together all the continued plot threads.
6.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 to 7.0 for strong action and a story that builds nicely on the series canon.