As of October 26, 2023, there are five core Underworld movies, chronicling the ongoing war between vampires and lycans. However, the future of the franchise remains open, and potential spinoffs or sequels could alter this count in the years to come.
Delving into the Depths of the Underworld Universe
The Underworld franchise, a cinematic saga of gothic horror and action, has captivated audiences since its debut in 2003. While the series hasn’t reached the sprawling dimensions of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it has carved out a significant niche with its unique blend of supernatural lore, intricate political maneuvering between warring factions, and stylish, visually arresting action sequences. The central narrative revolves around the eternal conflict between vampires, or Death Dealers, and lycans, or werewolves, focusing primarily on the character of Selene, a vampire warrior played by Kate Beckinsale.
The franchise’s success lies not only in its captivating premise but also in its dedicated fanbase, who appreciate the rich mythology and the complex characters that populate this dark and dangerous world. But the question remains: Beyond the five core films, what other elements contribute to the overall “Underworld” experience, and what can fans expect from the future?
Chronological Listing of Underworld Films
To ensure clarity, here’s a chronological list of the released Underworld movies:
- Underworld (2003)
- Underworld: Evolution (2006)
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)
- Underworld: Awakening (2012)
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
Exploring the Universe: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the scope and details of the Underworld franchise, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions, providing comprehensive answers for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
FAQ 1: Is there an Underworld TV series?
While there hasn’t been a fully realized Underworld television series, there have been attempts and discussions. In 2017, a television series was announced to be in development at Starz, with Len Wiseman, the creator of the franchise, involved. However, the project was reportedly put on hold, and its current status remains uncertain. This indicates that while a series is not available currently, the potential for future development exists.
FAQ 2: Will there be an Underworld 6?
The possibility of Underworld 6 remains a topic of much speculation. While no official announcements have been made regarding a direct sequel, the franchise producers have expressed interest in continuing the story in some form, potentially with new characters or a different focus. Kate Beckinsale has also expressed mixed feelings about returning to the role of Selene, adding another layer of uncertainty to the possibility of a sixth film with her as the lead. Ultimately, the future of the franchise hinges on various factors, including audience demand and the creative vision of the producers and studio.
FAQ 3: Which Underworld movie is considered the best?
Opinions vary widely among fans, but Underworld (2003) and Underworld: Evolution (2006) are often cited as the strongest entries in the series. The original Underworld is praised for its innovative blend of action, horror, and gothic aesthetics, establishing the franchise’s unique tone and visual style. Underworld: Evolution builds upon the mythology of the first film, delving deeper into the origins of the vampire-lycan war and featuring impressive action sequences. Ultimately, the “best” Underworld movie is a matter of personal preference.
FAQ 4: Is Underworld based on a book?
The Underworld franchise is not based on a pre-existing novel or book series. It is an original creation conceived by Kevin Grevioux, Len Wiseman, and Danny McBride. This distinguishes it from many other popular franchises that are adaptations of established literary works. The originality of the Underworld universe has allowed the creators to build a unique mythology and lore, independent of any prior source material.
FAQ 5: What is the correct viewing order for the Underworld movies?
For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch the Underworld movies in chronological order of release:
- Underworld (2003)
- Underworld: Evolution (2006)
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)
- Underworld: Awakening (2012)
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
While Rise of the Lycans is a prequel, watching it third allows for a more complete understanding of the overall narrative, as it builds upon the established world and characters from the first two films.
FAQ 6: Who is the strongest character in Underworld?
Selene, played by Kate Beckinsale, is arguably the strongest character in the Underworld franchise. Her evolution throughout the series, from a skilled Death Dealer to a powerful hybrid, makes her a formidable force. She possesses exceptional combat skills, enhanced strength and speed, and a deep understanding of both vampire and lycan cultures. However, certain antagonists, like Marcus Corvinus in Underworld: Evolution, present significant challenges to Selene, demonstrating the ever-present dangers within the Underworld universe.
FAQ 7: What are the differences between vampires and lycans in Underworld?
In the Underworld universe, vampires are generally portrayed as sophisticated and aristocratic, possessing enhanced speed, strength, and agility. They are immortal unless killed by specific means, such as sunlight or silver. Lycans, on the other hand, are depicted as more primal and savage, capable of transforming into powerful werewolves. Their strength and ferocity make them formidable opponents, but they are often portrayed as less organized and disciplined than the vampires. A crucial difference lies in their origins: vampires are descended from Alexander Corvinus through his immortal son, Marcus, while lycans descend from his other son, William, the first werewolf.
FAQ 8: What is the Corvinus Strain in Underworld?
The Corvinus Strain is a vital element of the Underworld mythology. It refers to the genetic lineage of Alexander Corvinus, the progenitor of both vampires and lycans. He was the first true immortal and fathered two sons, one bitten by a bat, creating the vampire lineage, and the other bitten by a wolf, creating the lycan lineage. The Corvinus Strain is highly sought after, as it holds the key to unlocking immense power and potentially creating hybrid beings with the strengths of both vampires and lycans.
FAQ 9: Where can I stream the Underworld movies?
Streaming availability varies by region and platform. The Underworld movies are often available on popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max, depending on licensing agreements. It’s best to check the specific streaming service in your region to confirm availability. Additionally, the films are often available for rent or purchase on digital platforms such as Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.
FAQ 10: Who directed the Underworld movies?
The Underworld movies have been directed by a variety of filmmakers:
- Underworld (2003): Len Wiseman
- Underworld: Evolution (2006): Len Wiseman
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009): Patrick Tatopoulos
- Underworld: Awakening (2012): Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016): Anna Foerster
The diverse directorial styles contribute to the unique visual and narrative tones of each film in the franchise.
FAQ 11: Are there any Underworld comic books or other media?
Yes, there are Underworld comic books that expand upon the universe and characters of the films. These comics offer additional insights into the lore and explore storylines that may not have been fully developed in the movies. Beyond comics, there may be other supplementary materials, such as video games or behind-the-scenes documentaries, that cater to dedicated fans seeking a deeper immersion into the Underworld universe.
FAQ 12: What is the significance of silver to lycans in Underworld?
In Underworld, silver is portrayed as a deadly weakness for lycans, similar to its traditional depiction in werewolf lore. Silver bullets, blades, and other weapons are highly effective against lycans, causing severe pain and often leading to death. The vulnerability to silver is a key element in the vampires’ strategy for combating the lycan threat. This weakness plays a crucial role in the balance of power between the two factions and influences the strategic decisions made by both sides.
The Future of the Underworld
While the immediate future of the Underworld franchise remains uncertain, the enduring popularity of the series and the potential for new storylines and characters suggest that the war between vampires and lycans may not be over. Whether in the form of a sixth film, a television series, or other media, the Underworld universe continues to captivate audiences with its dark and compelling narrative. The existing five movies provide a rich and engaging experience, and fans remain hopeful for a resurgence of this unique and stylish franchise.