Underworld

Starring: Kate Beckinsale, Scott Speedman, Michael Sheen, Bill Nighy, Wentworth Miller
Directed by: Len Wiseman
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Horror
2003

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary:In a world where vampires and werewolves are locked in an eternal battle, one rebellious vampire (Kate Beckinsale) discovers the werewolves are after a human (Scott Speedman) in order to use him as a weapon against the vampires. Now, she must convince the others or face possible extinction.

Review:

Tim: This is a pretty decent movie. I've always been a fan of vampire movies. I have to admit its pretty cool to see a movie about vampires verses werewolves. Underworld even goes so far as to explain the origin of the war between the two species, which is incredibly interesting. I really liked the premise of the film. Also, I liked the updated feel to an old story. These vampires don't turn into bats and fly away- they fire guns at the werewolves loaded with silver bullets (and the werewolves fire guns with some sort of light capsule at the vamps).

I also like the casting of Kate Beckinsale in the lead role. She was very good in both Serendipity and Pearl Harbor, and I like the change from more romantic roles to one of an action heroine in this film. The rest of the cast is decent at best.

Unfortunately, Underworld suffers from a convoluted and confusing plot. The battle between the vampires and werewolves is interesting enough, but much of the story revolves around awakening vampire elders and some rotation system they have in place. It's all very confusing and somewhat unnecessary to the plot. The film starts off smartly, but as it goes on, it picks up more and more information, smaller story lines, etc., and by the end you just want to see some action and have the film end. Speaking of the end, it is not that great. There are a few exciting moments, but the vast majority of the concluding scenes offer very little to stir up anything in the viewing audience.

I suppose this isn't a terrible film. It is an interesting and somewhat needed update of the old vampire movie. It might get better with repeated viewings, but for the foreseeable future, I'm contend with an initial cursory glance at this film.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 6



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Vampires, Interview with the Vampire, Serendipity, Pearl Harbor