“Underworld” (2003) is a gloomy and evil movie which immerses the spectators into the dark world of eternal war between the vampires and Lycans. Its moody look, with darkened alleyways and shiny lairs, drops you in a world in which these supernatural factions have their own histories and codes. The movie blends graphic, adrenaline-pumping action with high-stakes character beats, building you into a highly involved participant. The style of visuals and music are used in conjunction to create an unsparing mood, establishing the stakes as being in the present and full of emotion.
Kate Beckinsale’s depiction of Selene is that of a raging haunted soldier-woman and her guarded vulnerability peels off layer by layer. Her chemistry with Scott Speedman’s Michael provides emotional aspect to it, where what could have been a typical action movie becomes a story of love, sacrifice, and loyalty in impossible circumstances. The intersperse of the two characters has identified itself with me as the themes of loyalty during a fight and the ambiguity of morality inside an ancient war are left on the page. The well-timed action of the movie and the atmospheric score create an acute sense of danger and makes the viewer pay attention to what is happening.
Though not devoid of imperfections (the rushed plot points and old CGI effects come to mind immediately), “Underworld” manages to build an interesting world full of conspiracies and betrayals. Its complex dialogue and mysterious tempo add an element of mystery. After all, the movie made me think about muddy waters between good and bad and price of war and sense of loyalty. It is a stylish, moving, provocative film, which makes one doubt if love and morality could break a centuries-long hatred and leave an impression about the essence of heroism and humanity.
