As of 2024, there are five main installments in the Underworld film franchise, charting the bloody conflict between vampires and lycans. Beyond these, there is also an animated anthology.
The Underworld Cinematic Universe: A Complete Overview
The Underworld franchise has captivated audiences with its dark, stylish aesthetic, its intricate lore, and its high-octane action sequences. From its debut in 2003, the saga has explored the ongoing war between vampires (Death Dealers) and werewolves (Lycans), centering around the powerful vampire warrior, Selene, portrayed by Kate Beckinsale. Understanding the complete landscape of the Underworld universe requires navigating not just the main film series, but also ancillary materials.
The Core Films: Five Chapters of Blood and Betrayal
The foundation of the Underworld mythology lies in the five live-action films, each offering a unique perspective on the centuries-long war. The narrative weaves through political machinations, personal tragedies, and the desperate struggle for survival in a world concealed from human eyes. These films are the cornerstone of the Underworld experience:
- Underworld (2003): The film that started it all, introducing Selene and her discovery of a Lycan plot to evolve.
- Underworld: Evolution (2006): Continuing directly from the first film, exploring the origins of the vampire and Lycan species.
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009): A prequel set centuries before the original film, depicting the Lycans’ rebellion against the vampire elders. This film focuses heavily on Lucian, the original Lycan.
- Underworld: Awakening (2012): Selene awakens after being frozen for twelve years to find that humans have discovered the existence of vampires and Lycans and are actively hunting them.
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016): Selene must fight to protect her daughter, Eve, from both vampires and Lycans who seek to use her unique bloodline to their advantage.
Underworld: Endless War – An Animated Anthology
While not a feature-length film in the traditional sense, Underworld: Endless War (2011) is a significant part of the Underworld canon. It’s a collection of three animated short films, each lasting approximately 6-7 minutes, that bridge the gap between the first three live-action movies. These shorts offer insights into Selene’s missions and expand on characters and events only briefly touched upon in the main films. The animation style is unique and adds another layer to the Underworld universe. Considering its contribution to the overall narrative, it is generally accepted as part of the official Underworld chronology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Underworld Films
To further clarify the intricacies of the Underworld franchise, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Is There an Underworld 6 in Development?
As of late 2024, there is no confirmed Underworld 6 in active development. However, discussions about a potential reboot or a new chapter in the franchise have circulated for years. Kate Beckinsale has expressed openness to returning, but nothing concrete has materialized. The future of the Underworld franchise remains uncertain but far from extinguished.
FAQ 2: In What Order Should I Watch the Underworld Movies?
There are two common approaches to watching the Underworld films. The first is by release date, which allows you to experience the story as it unfolded for audiences. The second is by chronological order, which presents the events in the order they occur within the Underworld universe.
- Release Order: Underworld (2003), Underworld: Evolution (2006), Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009), Underworld: Awakening (2012), Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
- Chronological Order: Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009), Underworld (2003), Underworld: Evolution (2006), Underworld: Awakening (2012), Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
FAQ 3: Is Underworld: Endless War Essential Viewing?
While not strictly “essential,” Underworld: Endless War provides valuable context and expands upon Selene’s activities between the main films. It offers deeper insights into the vampire-Lycans conflict and the inner workings of the Death Dealers. It’s recommended for fans seeking a more complete Underworld experience.
FAQ 4: Who is Selene’s Daughter, Eve?
Eve is the hybrid daughter of Selene and Michael Corvin. Her unique genetic makeup makes her incredibly powerful and highly sought after by both vampires and Lycans. She plays a significant role in Underworld: Awakening and Underworld: Blood Wars.
FAQ 5: What Are the Core Differences Between Vampires and Lycans in Underworld?
In the Underworld universe, vampires are aristocratic, organized, and possess advanced technology. Lycans are more feral, driven by instinct, and have a greater physical strength advantage. However, Lycans are vulnerable to silver nitrate, a substance used extensively by the vampires. Over time, Lycans evolve and shed some weaknesses, but still struggle with the vampires’ advanced tech and organization.
FAQ 6: What is the “Corvinus Strain” and Why is it Important?
The Corvinus Strain is an ancient virus that is the source of both vampires and Lycans. It originated with Alexander Corvinus, the first immortal, and his descendants inherited different variations of the virus, leading to the creation of the two species. This virus is highly prized and is frequently sought after for its supposed ability to create incredibly powerful hybrids.
FAQ 7: Where Was the Underworld Series Filmed?
The Underworld films were primarily filmed in Eastern Europe, particularly Budapest, Hungary, and Prague, Czech Republic. These locations provided the gothic architecture and atmospheric environments that are essential to the Underworld‘s visual style.
FAQ 8: Who Composed the Music for the Underworld Films?
The music for the Underworld films has been composed by several talented individuals. The original Underworld score was by Marco Beltrami, while Underworld: Evolution featured music by Marco Beltrami and Danny Lohner. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans was scored by Tyler Bates, Underworld: Awakening by Paul Haslinger, and Underworld: Blood Wars by Michael Wandmacher.
FAQ 9: Who Directed the Underworld Movies?
Each film in the Underworld series has a different director, bringing their unique vision to the franchise. Len Wiseman directed the original Underworld and Underworld: Evolution. Patrick Tatopoulos directed Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein co-directed Underworld: Awakening, and Anna Foerster directed Underworld: Blood Wars.
FAQ 10: How Successful Was the Underworld Franchise at the Box Office?
The Underworld franchise has been commercially successful, grossing over $539 million worldwide against a combined production budget of approximately $240 million. While not a blockbuster on the scale of some other franchises, it has consistently performed well enough to justify the production of sequels.
FAQ 11: Are There Any Underworld Comics or Novels?
Yes, there are several Underworld comics and novels that expand upon the film’s lore and characters. These include comic book adaptations of the films and original novels that delve deeper into the Underworld mythology. These are a good way to engage with the franchise between movie releases.
FAQ 12: Will Kate Beckinsale Return for Future Underworld Projects?
Kate Beckinsale has expressed interest in returning to the role of Selene if the story is compelling and the opportunity aligns with her other commitments. While nothing is confirmed, her openness suggests that a future Underworld project featuring Selene is not entirely out of the question. Her participation would likely generate considerable excitement among fans.