The Underworld franchise, an action-horror film series, has captivated audiences since 2003 with its unique blend of vampires, werewolves (known as Lycans), and centuries-old conflict. Starring Kate Beckinsale as the vampire Death Dealer Selene, this saga combines gothic aesthetics with modern weaponry, creating a distinctive dark fantasy world. If you're looking to watch Underworld or planning a rewatch, this guide will help you navigate the complex narrative of this thrilling series.
Chronological Order of Underworld Movies
Here's the recommended viewing order to experience the Planet of the Apes saga chronologically:
| Title | Year | Amazon Link |
| Underworld: Rise of the Lycans | 2009 | Rent/Buy Movie |
| Underworld | 2003 | Rent/Buy Movie |
| Underworld: Evolution | 2006 | Rent/Buy Movie |
| Underworld: Awakening | 2012 | Rent/Buy Movie |
| Underworld: Blood Wars | 2016 | Rent/Buy Movie |
Let's explore each of these films in detail, discussing their place in the timeline and their significance to the overall story of the eternal war between vampires and Lycans.
Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)
Set in the early 13th century, this prequel explores the origins of the centuries-old feud between vampires and Lycans. The film focuses on Michael Sheen's Lucian, the first werewolf capable of taking human form, and his forbidden love affair with vampire Sonja (Rhona Mitra), daughter of vampire elder Viktor (Bill Nighy). It delves into the creation of the Lycan clan as former slaves for the race of aristocratic vampires, setting the stage for the entire Underworld series.
Underworld (2003)
Set in the present day, this action-horror film introduces us to vampire death dealer Selene (Kate Beckinsale), an elite vampire warrior who hunts Lycans. When she encounters Michael Corvin (Scott Speedman), a human caught in the vampire-Lycan war, Selene begins to uncover long-buried secrets about the history of their races. Directed by Len Wiseman, the movie establishes the modern-day conflict from the viewpoint of the pvc-clad lead character Selene.
Underworld: Evolution (2006)
Following immediately after Underworld, Evolution continues Selene and Michael's story as they face off against elder Marcus (Tony Curran), the first vampire. This installment, also directed by Len Wiseman, delves deeper into the ancient history of both species and the origins of the immortals, including Alexander Corvinus (Derek Jacobi). It expands the mythology of the Underworld universe and significantly develops Selene's character.
Underworld: Awakening (2012)
Set 12 years after Evolution, Awakening brings the story into a new era where humans have discovered the existence of vampires and Lycans. Selene awakens from cryogenic suspension to find the world dramatically changed. Directed by Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, this fourth film shifts the dynamics of the Underworld universe, introducing a three-way conflict between human forces, the vampire faction, and the Lycan clan.
Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
Taking place shortly after Awakening, Blood Wars sees Selene caught in the middle of a power struggle within the vampire coven while also being hunted by Lycans. As the final Underworld film in the main series, it brings closure to many ongoing storylines. Theo James joins the cast in this installment, which explores the future of the franchise and the potential end of the endless war between vampires and Lycans.
Additional Underworld Media
While this guide focuses on the main theatrical releases, there is additional Underworld media that fans might want to explore:
Underworld: Endless War (2011): This animated short film, split into three parts, shows Selene hunting down three Lycan brothers in different time periods. It provides additional backstory for Selene's character and can be viewed after watching the original Underworld.
Themes and Style
The Underworld series is known for its distinctive gothic-punk aesthetic, with Kate Beckinsale's Selene often appearing as a PVC-clad lead character. Throughout the films, several key themes emerge:
- The consequences of immortality and power
- Forbidden love and its repercussions
- The cyclical nature of war and vengeance
- Evolution and adaptation in both species and individuals
Future of the Franchise
While Blood Wars marked Beckinsale's return for the last time as Selene, the future of the franchise remains uncertain. Rumors of a potential TV series have circulated, but nothing has been confirmed. Regardless, the existing Underworld films offer a thrilling journey through a world of vampires, Lycans, and eternal conflict.
Whether you choose to watch Underworld in chronological order or release order, you're in for an action-packed ride through a dark and captivating universe. So, grab your UV ammunition and prepare to dive into the shadowy world of Underworld. As Selene would say, "I am a Death Dealer, sworn to destroy those known as the Lycans." Now, it's your turn to join the hunt and unravel the secrets of this eternal war.
