Review of Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)

The Underworld franchise has been a staple of the vampire vs. werewolf genre since its debut in 2003. Underworld: Blood Wars (2016), the fifth installment, attempts to expand the saga with new conflicts, betrayals, and power struggles. Directed by Anna Foerster, this film continues the story of Selene (Kate Beckinsale), the skilled Death Dealer, as she fights to protect herself and the vampire race from extinction.

Plot & Storyline

After the events of Underworld: Awakening (2012), Selene is on the run, hunted by both Lycans and vampires who see her as a threat. The Lycan leader Marius (Tobias Menzies) is determined to capture her, believing that her daughter’s blood holds the key to ultimate power. Meanwhile, the vampire coven is divided, with treachery lurking within. To survive, Selene must seek refuge in a hidden vampire sanctuary, where she undergoes a transformation that enhances her abilities for the final battle.

While the premise is intriguing, Blood Wars struggles with pacing and a somewhat predictable storyline. It lacks the depth and emotional stakes of earlier films, relying heavily on action rather than meaningful character development.

Action & Visuals

One of the film’s strengths is its stylish action sequences. Kate Beckinsale delivers another strong performance as Selene, maintaining her signature mix of elegance and deadly combat skills. The fight scenes are well-choreographed, featuring plenty of gunplay, sword fights, and supernatural battles. The visual effects, particularly the Lycan transformations, are decent but not groundbreaking compared to previous installments.

However, the movie’s darker, washed-out color palette sometimes makes scenes feel visually repetitive. While this aesthetic is consistent with the franchise, it lacks the gothic beauty of earlier entries like Underworld: Evolution (2006).

Characters & Performances

• Kate Beckinsale remains the heart of the franchise, delivering a solid performance despite a weaker script.
• Tobias Menzies as Marius is an intimidating antagonist, though his character lacks depth compared to past villains like Lucian or Viktor.
• Lara Pulver plays Semira, a scheming vampire elder, but her character feels somewhat underdeveloped.
• Theo James reprises his role as David, offering decent support to Selene, though he doesn’t leave a lasting impact.

Overall Verdict

Underworld: Blood Wars is an entertaining yet forgettable addition to the franchise. While it delivers on action and Kate Beckinsale’s signature presence, it fails to bring anything new to the table. The film struggles with a weak plot, underdeveloped villains, and an over-reliance on familiar tropes.

For longtime fans of Underworld, it’s still worth a watch for the action and Selene’s journey. However, for casual viewers, it may feel like just another vampire-versus-werewolf battle without much emotional weight.

⭐ 6/10 – Fun but lacking the magic of the earlier films.