Review of Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009) by Beth R — 16 Aug 2010

A well-crafted and enjoyable prequel that traces the origins of the blood feud between the aristocratic Vampires and their onetime slaves, The Lycans. In the Dark Ages a 1,000 years ago, a young Lycan slave named Lucian, played by a well-muscled ferocious Michael Sheen has emerges as a powerful leader who rallies and unites the Werewolves to rise up against their masters and tormentors the Vampires, and their cruel sadistic king Viktor, played to evil perfection by Bill Nighy who has enslaved them for slave labor and as watchdogs, to guard them while they sleep during the daylight hours.

Lucian is joined by his secret lover, Sonja played superbly by the sexy Rhona Mitra the beloved daughter of Viktor, in his battle against the Vampires army and his struggle to free all Lycans. The excellent visual effects help create a threatening atmosphere thoughtout the film, and the action sequences are outstanding.

A spectacular entry in the franchise. Note: "Underworld 4" a 3D sequel is expected to feature Kate Beckinsale back as the sexy Selene, for a January 2012 release. Highly Recommended.