Underworld: Evolution
(January 2006)

Underworld Evolution picks up right where the first movie ended. For those that haven't seen the first movie in a while don't fret, there's a "as seen on last episode" type catch me up at the beginning of the movie. For those that never watched the first movie - don't worry it's a vampire (death dealer) versus werewolf (lycan) movie. I'm sure you will figure out what's going on.

The movie opens with our heroes, Selene and Michael, hiding out hoping to avoid the aftermath of their actions in the first movie. Meanwhile back at the Death Dealer (vampire) mansion Markus, the first vampire, has awaken early from his slumber and is in a very foul mood. He learns of what Michael and Selene have done and flies off with some killing plans of his own. What follows next is 70 minutes of action, violence and a gratuitous sex scene.

The action sequences are more abundant and better quality than the first Underworld film. The special effects are above average for a monster movie. The minimal CGI budget was well spent, showing us excellent human to lycan transformations. The direction and sets were also spot on. The only weak point of the movie was Scott Speedman whose acting skills do not hold up in the company of Kate Beckinsale or the always wonderful Derek Jacobi.

Bottom line: Underworld Evolution is a better film than its predecessor. If you a fan of monster movies you will enjoy this film.

Rating: R for pervasive strong violence and gore, some sexuality/nudity and language.