Review of Underworld (1937) by Julian T — 29 Dec 2011

With a slick plot, loads of action, and a gothic feel, this is a vampire/werewolf movie that should make everyone realize how pathetic and childish the pathetic 'Twilight' really is. There are no sparkling fagpires, no emo 16 year olds, and no teen choice award winning pre-pube actors. Instead, we get the real creatures of the night.

The art of cinematography is on full display here, as the lighting, angles and backdrops take a pretty good movie and make it very good. The story line is steeped in mythology, well written, and demands that you pay attention. Kind of a mystery/detective story underlies the more in your face action angle.

The acting is pretty good, although not spectacular. Speedman, Brolly and Sheen are the highlights. Beckinsale is not at her best here, but damn, she looks terrific.

Not a perfect movie, as the plot does get a little convoluted at times, and some things remain a real stretch (such as how this raging battle has been hidden from mankind for centuries) but it is a stylish and very well put together movie which is often imitated, but has not been reproduced, even by its own sequels.