The Underworld film franchise, a symphony of gothic action, presents a complex timeline spanning centuries of vampire and Lycan conflict. Watching them in chronological order, beginning with Underworld: Rise of the Lycans, unlocks the saga’s full narrative potential and allows for a richer appreciation of its nuanced history.
Unraveling the Cinematic Chaos: The Optimal Viewing Orders
There are two primary ways to experience the Underworld universe: chronologically by in-universe events and chronologically by film release date. While release order allows you to experience the films as they were presented to audiences, chronological order by in-universe events provides the most cohesive and understandable narrative. This article will focus primarily on the latter.
The Chronological Order (In-Universe Events)
This viewing order prioritizes understanding the story’s timeline and character motivations as they unfold historically. It begins with the origin of the feud and then follows the progression of the conflict through Selene’s eyes.
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009): This prequel details the origins of the Lycan rebellion and the creation of the first Lycans by Lucian. It’s the foundational story for understanding the entire series.
- Underworld (2003): This is where Selene’s journey begins, introducing the modern war between vampires and Lycans, and setting the stage for the revelations to come.
- Underworld: Evolution (2006): Picking up directly after the first film, Evolution delves into the origins of both species and the secrets hidden within Selene’s bloodline.
- Underworld: Awakening (2012): After being cryogenically frozen for twelve years, Selene awakens to a changed world where humans are hunting both vampires and Lycans.
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016): This film continues Selene’s fight against both the Lycans and a faction of vampires seeking to exploit her daughter’s unique bloodline.
The Release Order
For those who prefer to experience the films as they were initially presented, the release order is as follows:
- Underworld (2003)
- Underworld: Evolution (2006)
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)
- Underworld: Awakening (2012)
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
This method may initially present some questions about character backstories and the overall history, but these are eventually answered as the series progresses.
Diving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most common questions about watching the Underworld movies, answered in detail.
H3: Why watch in chronological order by in-universe events?
Because it offers the most coherent narrative experience. Beginning with Rise of the Lycans allows you to understand the historical context of the vampire-Lycan conflict and appreciate the motivations driving each faction. Watching in release order can initially feel disjointed, as information about the past is revealed later in the series.
H3: Is Underworld: Rise of the Lycans essential viewing?
Absolutely. It lays the groundwork for the entire franchise. Without understanding the events depicted in Rise of the Lycans, the subsequent films lose much of their historical and emotional weight. It explains Lucian’s motives and the origins of the Lycan hatred for vampires.
H3: Does the Underworld series have a consistent tone across all films?
While the core theme of the vampire-Lycan war remains constant, the films have slightly varying tones. The first two films are more gothic and focused on atmosphere, while the later installments lean more towards action and modern settings. However, the overall aesthetic remains recognizable.
H3: Are there any plot holes or inconsistencies in the Underworld series?
Like many long-running franchises, the Underworld series has a few minor inconsistencies. These are often related to the specifics of character origins or the exact nature of their powers. However, they don’t significantly detract from the overall narrative.
H3: Where can I watch the Underworld movies?
The Underworld movies are generally available for streaming on various platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and through digital rental services like iTunes and Google Play. Availability can vary depending on your region and current licensing agreements.
H3: Are there any extended cuts or director’s cuts available?
Yes, some Underworld films have extended or unrated cuts available on Blu-ray and digital platforms. These versions often include additional scenes that add to the character development or increase the level of action and gore. The extended cut of Underworld: Evolution is particularly notable.
H3: Will there be any more Underworld movies?
The future of the Underworld franchise remains uncertain. While there have been talks of a potential sixth film or a television series, nothing concrete has been announced. Fan interest remains high, so a continuation is always a possibility.
H3: Should I watch the Underworld movies in 4K Ultra HD?
If you have a 4K-compatible television and Blu-ray player (or access to 4K streaming), watching the Underworld movies in 4K is highly recommended. The enhanced resolution and HDR (High Dynamic Range) significantly improve the visual experience, bringing out the details in the gothic sets, costumes, and special effects.
H3: Are the Underworld movies very gory?
Yes, the Underworld movies contain significant violence and gore. This is a core element of the franchise’s appeal for many fans. Expect to see plenty of blood, dismemberment, and creature violence. The films are generally rated R for this reason.
H3: Is Underworld appropriate for children?
No, the Underworld movies are not appropriate for children. The graphic violence, horror elements, and mature themes make them unsuitable for younger audiences. The R rating is a clear indicator of the content’s intensity.
H3: What are the core themes explored in the Underworld series?
The Underworld series explores themes of prejudice, revenge, forbidden love, and the struggle for freedom. It also delves into the corrupting influence of power and the consequences of ancient conflicts. The films use the vampire and Lycan mythology to examine complex human emotions and societal issues.
H3: Beyond the movies, is there any expanded Underworld universe content?
While there are no direct novelizations of the films, there has been some limited exploration of the Underworld universe in comic book format. These comics delve deeper into certain characters and storylines, offering fans a chance to further immerse themselves in the world. However, the primary focus of the franchise remains on the cinematic releases.
By following either the chronological order by in-universe events or the release order, and considering the additional insights provided in these FAQs, you can ensure a comprehensive and engaging experience with the Underworld saga. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to this gothic world, understanding the optimal viewing order is key to fully appreciating the epic conflict between vampires and Lycans.