Cinema Consults: Underworld

This film, which can be rented from your local video store, is rated on a scale of 1 to 4 caducei:

The Matrix

The X-Files. I

Matrix

UNDERWORLD (2003): Since the groundbreaking film burst onto the silver screen, dozens of movies have been imitating, reshaping, and recreating its style and feel in an attempt to capture some of its glory. This is one of those films. In this movie, we find that a war has been raging for centuries between vampires and werewolves. Kate Beckinsale plays the role of Selene, a vampire on the frontline whose dedication to her cause leads her to uncover the devious plots of werewolves and vampires alike. If it sounds like a cheesy made-for-TV movie, that's because it is. With the exception of some high-class special effects and costume designs, the plot is no better than a bad episode of can appreciate the movie's attempt to recreate the magic of classic monster movies with a moody feel, but a weak plot can't be hidden behind glitzy effects and tight-fitting costumes. Beckinsale is a good actress but is reduced to slow motion walking shots rather than acting. And they want to make a sequel to this? I really can't understand why.

Rating: 1

Lisa A. Tomaszewski, managing editor of Physician's Money Digest, is currently working on her PhD in literature at Drew University in New Jersey. She is an avid fan of film and has taught a summer film course at Fairleigh Dickinson University. She welcomes questions, comments, or suggestions for future film reviews at 732-656-1140 ext 195 or ltomaszewski@mwc.com.