Underworld: Rise of the Lycans

4.50
    Underworld: Rise of the Lycans
    2009

    Synopsis

    A prequel to the first two Underworld films, this fantasy explains the origins of the feud between the Vampires and the Lycans. Aided by his secret love, Sonja, courageous Lucian leads the Lycans in battle against brutal Vampire king Viktor. Determined to break the king's enslavement of his people, Lucian faces off against the Death Dealer army in a bid for Lycan independence.

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    Cast

    • Rhona MitraSonja
    • Bill NighyViktor
    • Michael SheenLucian
    • Shane BrollyKraven
    • Steven MackintoshAndreas Tanis
    • Kevin GreviouxRaze
    • David AstonColoman
    • Geraldine BrophyNobleman's Wife
    • Leighton CardnoFearful Lycan
    • Alexander CarrollYoung Lucian

    Recommendations

    • 70

      Variety

      First-time helmer Patrick Tatopoulos (who designed creatures for all three pics) offers a satisfyingly exciting monster rally that often plays like a period swashbuckler.
    • 70

      The Hollywood Reporter

      Thanks to sturdy performances by holdovers Michael Sheen and Bill Nighy as well as tidy, unfussy direction by first-timer Patrick Tatopoulos, the creature designer who is taking the reins from originator Len Wiseman, the third installment in the successful franchise should be to the fan base's lycan.
    • 60

      The New York Times

      Although the presence of Mr. Sheen is initially distracting, it soon becomes the movie's greatest asset. There is, as it turns out, some benefit to having a real performance even in a formulaic entertainment like this.
    • 58

      Entertainment Weekly

      Sheen and Nighy do their best with the material, but this is easily the worst Underworld so far.
    • 50

      Time

      The enterprise is sluggish when it's not grinding toward the preposterous.
    • 50

      ReelViews

      The first film was significantly better and, therefore, is the place to start for anyone with a modicum of interest. Underworld: Rise of the Lycans is an also-ran that is likely to be appreciated only by completists.
    • 50

      Los Angeles Times

      Grimly competent.
    • 50

      TV Guide Magazine

      While it may not be "Citizen Canine," Rise of the Lycans tells its tale competently and without the derivative nature of its predecessors.

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