Starring: Kate Beckinsale | Theo James | Tobias Menzies | India Eisley

The Underworld franchise has long been a staple of dark, thrilling action, blending gothic visuals with visceral combat and vampire lore. With Underworld 6: Rise of the Vampire, the saga dives deeper into its rich mythology, pushing the boundaries of its established universe. This latest installment brings a thrilling new twist, breathing life into the ancient threat that’s poised to tear apart the supernatural world: the first vampire.
The film begins with a chilling, almost surreal awakening beneath Budapest, where an ancient vampire—one who doesn’t simply crave blood but feeds on the essence of immortality itself—begins his reign of terror. His bite has a horrifying effect: those he feeds on lose their immortality and descend into madness, a fate far worse than death. This terrifying new antagonist brings a fresh sense of fear to the Underworld series, tapping into existential dread and the very essence of what it means to live forever.

Kate Beckinsale returns as the resilient Selene, still carrying the weight of her tragic past. As the only immortal immune to the first vampire’s curse, Selene is forced into one last battle for the survival of all vampires and lycans. Beckinsale’s portrayal of Selene continues to shine with unwavering strength and emotional depth, making her the beating heart of this dark narrative. In a world where death seems inevitable, she represents the last hope—standing alone against an ancient evil.
The film’s core conflict builds toward an epic showdown in the desolate, haunting corridors of Budapest’s metro. It’s 4 a.m., and the streets are empty—only flickering lights and dust fill the air where immortals once roamed. This setting is as much a character as the ones on screen, providing a claustrophobic atmosphere that heightens the tension. The choice of an abandoned metro station as the final battleground is inspired, symbolic of a world that has been abandoned by the very immortality that once defined it.
Theo James delivers a strong performance as David, the vampire ally to Selene, bringing emotional resonance to his role. His bond with Selene is tested throughout the film, as their shared history and complex relationship take center stage. Meanwhile, Tobias Menzies adds layers of menace and mystery to the character of the first vampire, perfectly capturing the eerie calm of an ancient predator. His presence on screen is both haunting and magnetic, an embodiment of the terrifying power of immortality.

India Eisley, as the young vampire Eve, brings a new energy to the narrative, embodying the innocence lost in the battle against time. Her character is more than just a plot device—she represents the fragile future of a dying race. Together with Beckinsale’s Selene, they form an emotional core that anchors the chaos and violence around them.
The visual effects are stunning, showcasing the franchise’s hallmark blend of sleek, dark aesthetics with bursts of brutal action. The combat scenes are intense and impeccably choreographed, each strike and move dripping with a sense of purpose and desperation. But it’s not just about the fight sequences; the film expertly uses lighting and shadows to create a haunting atmosphere. The streets of Budapest never look so foreboding, and the metro is both a physical and metaphorical graveyard.
The film’s pacing is relentless, maintaining an intense rhythm that keeps the audience on edge. There are no slow moments here—every scene drives the plot forward, raising the stakes until the final confrontation. By the time the credits roll, viewers will be left breathless, the weight of the night’s events lingering long after the screen fades to black.

In Underworld 6: Rise of the Vampire, the stakes have never been higher. This is a film about mortality, the cost of immortality, and the moral dilemmas of an endless life. As Selene fights to protect what’s left of her kind, she is forced to confront her own fears about survival and sacrifice. The film offers a philosophical edge beneath the action, making it more than just another entry in the franchise. It’s a meditation on immortality, isolation, and the battle against inevitable decay.
With its stunning visuals, emotionally charged performances, and a plot that expands the Underworld universe in bold new ways, this latest chapter is a fitting conclusion to Selene’s journey. The night may end here, but its legacy will live on in the shadows. Underworld 6 is an intense, unforgettable ride.
Verdict: 9.3/10 – The night ends here.
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