There were a lot of movies I wanted to see this past year, but only two that have had me bursting with anticipation. The first was X2, for obvious reasons, and the second was Underworld, starring Kate Beckinsale and, of all people, Scott Speedman. First, we went on opening night, at the last show of the night. There was a line up around the theatre to get in, and there were five freaks in black and white makeup and goth outfits. Very disturbing. There was also a trailer for Resident Evil: Apocolypse. A fantastic take on a cosmetics commercial. I loved it.
The movie itself deals with a centuries old war between Vampires, which the leather-clad Beckinsale is one, and the Lycans, werewolves. Most of what the vampire believe about the war are lies, spread by the patriarch of the clan. He destroyed Celine's family (sorry, that's Beckinsale's character) but, she owes him loyalty. Its a great twisted story. Speedman plays Micheal, who the Lycans need because of his blood. It has the power to mold the viruses of the immortal races. If bitten by both, he'll be able to survive and morph into something else.
The story in this movie is so well realized. There is action, and Beckinsale pulls it off flawlessly, but most of the movie as actual story and character development. I was enthralled by this movie from beginning to end. And, well, Speedman did what he should do, stood around and didn't speak too much. The most amazing thing about this movie was the fleshed out story. It was a rich tapestry which blew my mind. There are rumored plans of a sequel and prequel. There is so much story to tell here. I can't wait.
Well, like I said, there were only two movies this year that I was over-the-top excited for. The first was the best movie of the summer. This one is the best of the early fall season. 10 of 10. And Shan hated it. But he's jaded and cynical.