The 2006 action horror film film Underworld: Evolution, directed by Len Wiseman, follows the successful formula established in its 2003 predecessor and manages to deliver a satisfactory sequel. However, it falls short of matching the quality of the first film, which ended with an ingenious cliffhanger that justified the creation of this new instalment.
The saga continues with the centuries-old secret conflict between vampires and werewolves (Lycans), focusing on Selene (played by Kate Beckinsale), a vampire who has turned against her own kind to protect Michael (played by Scott Speedman), a rare vampire-Lycan hybrid. As she is pursued by Markus (played by Tony Curran), the first vampire seeking to free William Corvinus (played by Brian Steele), the most powerful Lycan imprisoned for centuries, Selene and Michael encounter Lorenzo Macaro (played by Derek Jacobi), an elderly immortal who happens to be the forefather of both races.
Underworld: Evolution retains all the key ingredients that made the first film a hit – frenetic action, graphic violence, CGI monsters, a "cool" soundtrack, and a Gothic-modern atmosphere with stylish costumes featuring Kate Beckinsale in tight leather. Wiseman's direction is solid, capturing the essence of the franchise.
However, the script by Danny McBride suffers from excessive world-building, leading to choppy exposition through flashbacks and an already complex plot that becomes even more convoluted and difficult to follow for anyone other than die-hard fans. Despite this, the film still delivers on a technical level, thanks to a good cast, with Beckinsale, who between production married Wiseman, carrying the movie despite lacking chemistry with Scott Speedman, which makes even the sex scene look forgettable. On the other hand, grand Shakespearean actor Derek Jacobi as Lorenzo Macaro brings gravitas and class to the proceedings. Although the film may not reach the same heights as its predecessor, it remains a satisfactory addition to the franchise.
Critics once again voiced their dissatisfaction with the film, but the audience still showed enthusiasm for the series. This led to further instalments, including the prequel Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009) and two regular sequels – Underworld: Awakening (2012) and Underworld: Blood Wars (2016).
Underworld: Evolution may not be a perfect film, but it successfully builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessor. Although it may not match the brilliance of the first instalment in the series, it remains an enjoyable addition to the franchise and a testament to Wiseman's direction and Beckinsale's performance.
RATING: 5/10 (++)
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