Beginning in 2003, the ‘Underworld’ series has been
enduringly popular. Now onto its fifth instalment, ‘Underworld: Blood
Wars’ serves up more of the same. Full of stylised action and visceral
violence, it hasn’t been anything that would give noted writers
nightmares. The only bad thoughts would be for its producers if it
doesn’t rake in the dollars although given its successful track record, that
won’t be something causing concern. Typically over the top, its gothic
visions hits its target with ease.
Selene (Kate Beckinsale) is a vampire death dealer waging an
eternal war against the evil Lycans. Battling them and another Vampire
faction wanting her blood and those of her daughter to create a horrifying
hybrid, Selene’s work is cut out. With the help of ally David (Theo
James) and her father Thomas (Charles Dance), Selene utilises her bag of tricks
to defeat her enemies. With eternal darkness slowly moving in, the war
turns bloodier under the moon’s malevolent gaze.
Fans of the ‘Underworld’ series will know what to expect
with this latest entry. Explosions, actions and violence are all present
and correct. Also notable is the usual convoluted plotting and wonky
acting. ‘Underworld: Blood Wars’ won’t be winning Oscars anytime soon
although as a slice of CGI hokum it works. It’s hard taking anything
seriously where the heroine endlessly rises from the ashes of certain defeat to
tackle her enemies.
Anna Foerster doesn’t so much direct but rather programs.
She doesn’t have to do much except make each action sequence look different
from previous films. Concentrating on the acting isn’t something she
needs to do as everyone from Beckinsale down turns in uniformly wooden
performances. ‘Underworld: Blood Wars’ exists to extend a franchise and
for viewers to sit back and drink in the noise and bloody spectacle – which it
does.
Delivering what one expects ‘Underworld: Blood Wars’ is a
load of silly nonsense. It is entertaining as it delivers eye-popping
visuals within its murky story. Yet another sequel will surely
materialise if this is successful proving the commercial movie machine will
never stop if there is cash to be made.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 5
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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