Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009) is the third installment in the Underworld franchise, directed by Patrick Tatopoulos. Serving as a prequel to the previous films, it delves into the origins of the centuries-long war between the aristocratic vampires (Death Dealers) and the oppressed werewolves (Lycans).

The film focuses on Lucian (Michael Sheen), the first Lycan born with the ability to transform between human and werewolf forms. Raised as a slave under the rule of the vampire elder Viktor (Bill Nighy), Lucian falls in love with Viktor’s daughter, Sonja (Rhona Mitra), a forbidden relationship that sparks the rebellion. As Lucian leads the Lycans in their fight for freedom, the movie reveals the deep-rooted animosity that ignites the violent conflict between the two species.

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans is filled with intense battles, dark gothic aesthetics, and tragic romance. It explores themes of loyalty, oppression, and the desire for freedom, adding depth to the mythology of the Underworld universe.