Wednesday 16 August 2023

Underworld (2003) Film Review: A Thrilling Gothic Tale of Vampires and Werewolves

Introduction Review Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld (2003)

If you're a fan of action-horror movies, chances are you've heard of "Underworld." This movie was released in 2003, and it quickly became a cult classic. Directed by Len Wiseman, "Underworld" is a fascinating look at the war between vampires and werewolves.

The movie opens with a bang, as vampires and werewolves engage in a fierce battle. The audience is quickly introduced to the main character, Selene, a vampire who is determined to wipe out all the werewolves. What follows is a thrilling adventure as Selene uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens to destroy both the vampires and the werewolves.

The cast of "Underworld" is top-notch. Kate Beckinsale stars as Selene, while Scott Speedman plays Michael, a human who gets caught up in the war between the vampires and werewolves. The movie also features Bill Nighy as the leader of the vampires, and Michael Sheen as the leader of the werewolves.

The special effects in "Underworld" are impressive, especially for a movie that was made in 2003. The fight scenes are intense and well-choreographed, and the movie's gothic aesthetic adds to the overall atmosphere.

In conclusion, "Underworld" is a must-see for fans of action-horror movies. The movie has it all - intense action, great performances, and a gripping storyline. Whether you're a fan of vampires, werewolves, or just great movies in general, "Underworld" is a movie you won't want to miss.

Plot Summary Review of Underworld (2003)

Underworld poster

Underworld is a 2003 action-horror film that takes place in a modern-day world where vampires and werewolves (lupos) exist and have been at war for centuries. The movie follows Selene, a death dealer, who is a vampire that kills lupos. The story begins when Selene discovers a revived lupo threat that could change the course of the war.

The Plot

The movie starts with a brief introduction about the two species and their ongoing war. Selene finds out that the lupos are searching for a human, Michael Corvin, and she becomes intrigued by him. She soon realizes that there is something peculiar about him, and as they forge a connection, she discovers that he might be the key to ending the war.

As Selene and Michael try to unravel the mystery surrounding Michael's connection to the two species, they encounter various obstacles along the way. They uncover a plot by one of their own, Kraven, who has been working with the lupos to manipulate events for his benefit. The story moves on to an epic final battle between Selene, Michael, and Kraven.

The Characters

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the movie is Kate Beckinsale's portrayal of Selene. She embodies the character's strength and fiercely independent nature, making her a perfect action hero. Michael Sheen, who plays the lupo leader, Lucian, delivers a standout performance as the charismatic and intelligent lupo who is more complex than meets the eye.

Overall, Underworld is a well-crafted action movie that offers a fresh take on the vampire and werewolf genre. The film's notable performances, tightly written plot, thrilling action sequences, and the dark fantasy world it portrays make it a cinematic treat for fans of the genre and anyone seeking a captivating and well-executed action film.

Characters and their backgrounds Review Underworld (2003) Movie

Characters and their backgrounds Review Underworld (2003) Movie

If you're a fan of dark fantasy and action movies, then you'll probably enjoy the 2003 movie Underworld. The movie is centered around the battle between vampires and werewolves, and it's packed with plenty of thrilling fight scenes and dramatic moments. But what really makes the movie stand out are its characters and their backgrounds.

The main character of the movie is Selene, a vampire and one of the deadliest warriors in her clan. She's played by Kate Beckinsale, who does an excellent job of delivering a performance that's both tough and vulnerable. Selene's backstory is interesting as well; she was turned into a vampire as a young woman and has been fighting in the vampire-werewolf conflict for centuries.

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Another important character in the movie is Michael, a human who becomes involved in the conflict between the vampires and the werewolves. Played by Scott Speedman, Michael brings a refreshing outsider perspective to the world of the movie. His own backstory, which involves uncovering his lineage and fighting to stay alive in a world full of supernatural beings, is also compelling.

Finally, there's Lucian, the leader of the werewolves. He's played by Michael Sheen, and his performance is one of the highlights of the movie. Lucian's background is tragic; he was a slave to the vampires for most of his life before leading a rebellion against them. Sheen does an excellent job of portraying Lucian's anger and determination, making him one of the most memorable characters in the movie.

Overall, if you're looking for a movie with well-developed characters and plenty of action, Underworld is definitely worth watching. Its characters and their backgrounds bring a lot of depth to the story, elevating it beyond a simple vampire vs. werewolf battle.

Setting and Location Review of Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld Movie Setting and Location Review

Underworld, a 2003 action-horror movie, is set in the mysterious underworld of vampires and werewolves. The movie is largely shot in various locations in Budapest, Hungary, which perfectly depicts the ominous and gothic vibe of the story. The cold and damp ambience of the city provides the perfect backdrop for the rivalry between the two supernatural beings.

One of the most notable locations in the movie is the grand mansion that belongs to Viktor, the leader of the vampire clan. The immaculately decorated interiors of the mansion are a treat for the eyes. The mansion has a vintage look and feel, and the dimly-lit chandeliers hanging from the ceilings add to the overall eerie atmosphere of the movie.

The old abandoned subway station is another location that stands out in the movie. The station is beautifully crafted, and the graffiti art on the walls adds to the already creepy ambience. The subway station is where a lot of action takes place, and the loud echoes of the footsteps against the walls add a sense of urgency and thrill to the scene.

Overall, the setting and locations of the Underworld movie are visually captivating and perfectly capture the essence of the story. The use of gothic architecture and gloomy locations create an unsettling atmosphere that adds to the horror element of the movie.

Cinematography and Visual Effects Review: Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld is a dark horror-action film that boasts impressive cinematography and visual effects. The movie is set in an underground world of vampires and werewolves who are locked in a centuries-long war. The filmmakers have done a fantastic job of creating a grim, gothic atmosphere that perfectly complements the plot.

The movie features several action sequences that are visually stunning and perfectly choreographed. The gunfights and fights between the vampires and werewolves are intricate and well thought out. The quick editing style employed by the director gives the movie a frenetic pace that keeps the audience engaged throughout.

The visual effects in Underworld are also a highlight of the movie. The filmmakers made use of state-of-the-art technology to create the supernatural elements in the movie. The transformation sequences from human to werewolf and vice versa are particularly impressive. The vampires' superhuman abilities, such as speed and strength, are also rendered convincingly.

The movie's dark color palette and moody lighting further enhance the Gothic atmosphere, further immersing the audience in the world of the undead. The cinematography is a standout element of the movie, with each shot meticulously framed and composed to evoke a sense of dread and tension.

In conclusion, Underworld is an excellent example of how cinematography and visual effects can be used to enhance a movie's atmosphere and story. The movie's gothic visuals and expertly crafted action sequences are a treat for fans of the horror and supernatural genres.

Sound and Music Review Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld movie

The Soundtrack

Underworld, a 2003 action/horror movie, is known for its dark, gritty vibe and intense action scenes. The soundtrack chosen for the movie, contributed to the overall atmosphere, it had a perfect blend of gothic ambiance and fast-paced rock music. The music composed by Paul Haslinger adapted perfectly to every scene.

The Sound Effects

The film’s sound effects were stunning, immersing viewers to the world of vampires and werewolves. The sound effects team did an amazing job creating a range of sounds, from the eerie howls of werewolves to the sound of gunshots. Additionally, the background sound effect of the film helped to create suspense in some scenes.

The Dialogue

The dialogue of the movie was memorable too, with actors bringing their characters to life. Kate Beckinsale, who played the lead role of Selene, delivered her lines with a sense of urgency. Bill Nighy, who portrayed the role of Viktor, was the perfect example of a villain with a commanding voice. The dialogue matched the intensity of the film, and it remains one of the best vampire movies ever made.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Underworld's sound and music played a significant role in making the movie thrilling and exciting. The soundtrack and sound effects elevated the viewing experience, and the dialogue provided an extra layer of depth. The movie's sound quality is a testament to skillful sound engineering and its contribution to the success of the film. It's not surprising that it gained a cult following and spawned a series of sequels and prequels.

Themes and messages conveyed Review Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld, the 2003 action-horror movie directed by Len Wiseman, has themes and messages that are conveyed throughout the movie. The movie is about a centuries-long war between the vampires and the werewolves, and it explores themes such as power, loyalty, and trust.

One of the primary themes in the movie is power. The vampires, who are the dominant species, are fighting to maintain their power over the werewolves. The werewolves, on the other hand, are fighting to gain more power and overthrow their vampire oppressors. This theme is also explored on a personal level, as the main character, Selene, struggles with whether to obey her vampire leaders or follow her own instincts.

Another theme in the movie is loyalty. The vampires and the werewolves both have strong loyalties to their respective groups, but individual characters also struggle with their loyalty to these groups. Selene, for example, has to decide whether to remain loyal to the vampires or side with the werewolf, Michael, whom she has grown close to.

Trust is also a key theme in the movie. The vampires and the werewolves don't trust each other, and this lack of trust leads to violence and conflict. Individual characters also struggle with trust, particularly Selene, who must decide whether to trust Michael and his intentions.

Overall, Underworld is a thought-provoking movie that explores themes such as power, loyalty, and trust. These themes are conveyed throughout the movie and add depth and complexity to the characters and their struggles. If you're a fan of action-horror movies with themes that go beyond just the surface level, Underworld is definitely worth watching.

Critical Reception and Reviews Review Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld Movie Poster

The Beginning of the Franchise

Underworld was released in 2003 and would become the first installment in a lucrative vampire action franchise. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the film would become a box office success and pave the way for sequels, prequels, and even a television series.

A Look at the Critic's Reviews

While many critics were critical of the plot and pacing of the film, the impressive visuals and action sequences were commended. James Berardinelli of ReelViews stated, "Director Len Wiseman knows how to stage a fight scene, and there are enough of these to make Underworld a moderately entertaining diversion." Claudia Puig of USA Today praised the movie's "sleek, gothic look", but ultimately found the story to be confusing and lacking in depth.

Fan's Enjoyment of the Film

Despite the mixed reception from critics, audiences have consistently enjoyed the film and its sequels over the years. Underworld has gained a devoted fanbase, drawn to its blend of vampire mythology and modern action tropes. Fans have praised the performances of Kate Beckinsale and Michael Sheen, as well as the film's soundtrack.

A Successful Legacy

Underworld may not have been a critical darling upon release, but its eventual box office success and enduring popularity have cemented the film's place in the vampire movie canon. The film's success spawned a franchise that has continued for nearly two decades, with multiple installments and spin-offs.

In conclusion, Underworld may not have been a critical success, but it has gained a dedicated fanbase and left a legacy of vampire action films in its wake. Its stunning visuals and exhilarating action sequences have stood the test of time, and the franchise it spawned is a testament to its enduring popularity.

Box Office Performance and Awards Won Review: Underworld (2003) Movie

Box Office Performance and Awards Won Review: Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld debuted in 2003 and it is a horror-action thriller that has a unique storyline featuring vampires and lycans. The movie captured the audience's attention due to its dark setting, intense action scenes, and the complex relationships between the characters. The movie received mixed reviews but managed to perform well at the box office.

Underworld had a production budget of around $22 million. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the movie crossed over $95 million worldwide. This was an extraordinary achievement for a new franchise.

Furthermore, the movie won the Best Makeup award at the Saturn Awards in 2004. This significant achievement demonstrates that the movie's makeup team provided excellent work that matched perfectly with the story's tone.

The franchise managed to produce four additional movies, which made a substantial impression on popular culture. However, the original Underworld movie holds a special place in the hearts of horror fans and action fanatics who loved the perfect blend of both genres.

Overall, the movie's box office performance and awards won are proof of the incredible success of Underworld. The franchise's impact on pop culture has been significant. The movie's unique storyline and complex characters have made it memorable. Even after 18 years since its debut, Underworld remains a cult classic for fans worldwide.

Conclusion Review Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld movie poster

With its blend of action, horror, and fantasy, Underworld is a movie that truly bites. After watching this movie, viewers are left breathless with its adrenaline-pumping action scenes, heart-pounding suspense, and exceptional performances. The movie directed by Len Wiseman is a perfect example of a well-crafted action-horror hybrid. Fueled by Kate Beckinsale's dynamic and engaging portrayal of Selene, a vampire warrior, the film succeeds in creating a stunning dystopian world.

The storyline in Underworld is rich and engaging, plunging the audience into a world of vampire clans and werewolf packs that are caught in a centuries-old feud. The special effects used in the film are breathtaking, from the visual style to the stunning choreography of selene's moves. The ultimate battle sequence is truly epic and leaves viewers on the edge of their seats with its intense and raw energy. Moreover, the soundtrack used in this movie fits like a glove, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

In conclusion, Underworld is an action-packed and thrilling movie with a well-crafted storyline, excellent performances, and breathtaking special effects. Fans of the horror and the action genre will find this movie to be an excellent blend of both. If you want to be engrossed in a dystopian world full of adventure, Underworld is a must-watch!

Review: Underworld (2003) Movie

Underworld is an action-packed, vampire-themed movie that was released in 2003. Starring Kate Beckinsale as a vampire named Selene, and directed by Len Wiseman, it's a movie that has captivated audiences with its stylish visuals and intense action scenes.

The story revolves around a feud between vampires and werewolves (called Lycans), which has been going on for centuries. Selene, who's part of the vampire clan, finds herself caught in the middle of this war, and discovers a shocking truth about her past.

The movie is full of high-octane action, with plenty of gunfights, hand-to-hand combat, and martial arts. The fight scenes are choreographed to perfection and will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the movie.

The production design of the movie is also worth mentioning, as it captures the gothic and mysterious vibe of the underworld perfectly. The movie's sound design is also noteworthy, as it creates an immersive atmosphere that draws the audience deeper into the story.

Kate Beckinsale delivers a formidable performance as Selene, portraying her as a strong and fearless warrior with no shortage of wit and charisma. The rest of the cast, including Scott Speedman, Shane Brolly, and Bill Nighy, also give noteworthy performances, adding depth to the characters they portray.

In conclusion, Underworld is a must-watch movie for fans of the action and vampire genre. With its captivating storyline, stunning visuals, and breathtaking action, it's guaranteed to leave you entertained and wanting more.

So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the ride into the underworld.

Until we meet again...

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Review Underworld (2003) Movie