Underworld: Awakening - Selene's Fierce Return To A Changed World

Step into a world where ancient feuds bleed into modern battlefields, where the lines between hunter and hunted blur, and where one vampire warrioress stands as humanity's unlikely last hope. We're diving deep into the heart of Underworld: Awakening, the 2012 American action horror film that reignited the iconic saga of Selene and the eternal war between Vampires and Lycans. This installment not only brought back Kate Beckinsale in her signature role but also plunged the narrative into uncharted territory, forcing our protagonist to confront a world radically altered by human discovery.

Directed by the dynamic duo Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, from a screenplay crafted by Len Wiseman, John Hlavin, and J. Michael Straczynski, Underworld: Awakening delivered a relentless surge of action and gothic horror. It pushed the boundaries of the franchise, presenting a harrowing new enemy and a desperate fight for survival. Join us as we dissect the film's gripping plot, its memorable characters, the directorial vision, and its lasting impact on the beloved *Underworld* universe.

Table of Contents

• The Unfolding Saga: What is Underworld: Awakening?
• Selene's Harrowing Escape: A Plot Deep Dive
• Iconic Faces: The Cast of Underworld: Awakening
  • Kate Beckinsale: The Enduring Vampire Warrioress
• Behind the Lens: Directing and Screenwriting Underworld: Awakening
• Action, Horror, and Visuals: The Aesthetic of Awakening
• Critical Reception and Box Office Performance
• The Legacy of Underworld: Awakening in the Franchise
• Where to Watch Underworld: Awakening Today

The Unfolding Saga: What is Underworld: Awakening?

Released in 2012, Underworld: Awakening stands as the fourth installment in the critically acclaimed *Underworld* film series. It’s an American action horror film that successfully revitalized the franchise after a prequel, *Underworld: Rise of the Lycans*, explored the origins of the conflict. This film marked a significant return to the core narrative, bringing back the franchise's undeniable star, Kate Beckinsale, as the formidable Death Dealer, Selene. The movie was a crucial pivot, shifting the focus from the historical war to a new, terrifying dynamic: humanity's direct involvement.

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At its core, Underworld: Awakening is a tale of survival and adaptation. It plunges Selene into a world vastly different from the one she knew, a world where the existence of both Vampires and Lycans is no longer a secret. This revelation sparks a global purge, with human forces aggressively hunting down and eradicating both species. The film's premise immediately raises the stakes, transforming a clandestine war into an open, brutal extermination campaign. This change of pace and narrative direction was key to keeping the series fresh and engaging for its dedicated fanbase.

Directed by the creative vision of Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, the film adopted a more visceral and fast-paced approach, befitting the heightened sense of urgency. Their direction, coupled with a screenplay that deepened the lore while introducing compelling new elements, ensured that Awakening (2012) wasn't just another sequel but a vital chapter that expanded the *Underworld* universe in thrilling ways.

Selene's Harrowing Escape: A Plot Deep Dive

The narrative of Underworld: Awakening kicks off with a jarring transition, throwing viewers directly into the consequences of the previous film, *Underworld: Evolution*. Selene, alongside her hybrid lover Michael Corvin, is ambushed by human forces. The film then fast-forwards, revealing that Selene has been subjected to a prolonged, forced cryogenic sleep for twelve years within a research facility known as Antigen. This period of imprisonment leaves her disoriented but, crucially, still very much alive and incredibly powerful.

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As the war between vampires and lycans rages on, Selene escapes from this harrowing, forced cryogenic sleep. Her awakening is not merely a physical one but also a brutal reintroduction to a world that has fundamentally changed. Humans, having discovered the existence of both vampire and lycan species, have launched a full-scale "Purge" to eradicate them. This new enemy is far more organized and technologically advanced than anything Selene has faced before, making her fight for survival even more desperate.

Upon her escape, Selene experiences fragmented visions, leading her to believe Michael is still alive. However, she soon discovers a shocking truth: she has a daughter, Eve, a powerful hybrid child created from Selene's own bloodline and Michael's. Eve's existence is a game-changer, making her a target for both the remaining Lycans, who seek to exploit her unique genetic makeup, and the human forces at Antigen, led by the enigmatic Dr. Jacob Lane (Stephen Rea). Lane is revealed to be a Lycan himself, secretly manipulating the Purge to create a new, more resilient breed of Lycans immune to silver.

Selene's primary objective quickly shifts from merely surviving to protecting Eve and uncovering the truth behind Antigen's sinister experiments. She forms an uneasy alliance with a few remaining vampires, including David (Theo James) and his father Thomas, who are initially wary of her but soon recognize her unparalleled combat skills and knowledge. The film culminates in a brutal confrontation at Antigen, where Selene unleashes her full fury against the enhanced Lycans and the treacherous Dr. Lane, fighting not just for her own life, but for the future of her newly discovered daughter and the dwindling vampire race. The ending leaves the door open, with Selene and Eve escaping, but Michael's fate still uncertain, setting the stage for future conflicts.

Iconic Faces: The Cast of Underworld: Awakening

A significant part of the appeal of any *Underworld* film lies in its compelling characters, brought to life by a talented ensemble cast. Underworld: Awakening was no exception, featuring a mix of returning fan favorites and fresh faces who added new dimensions to the ongoing conflict.

• Kate Beckinsale as Selene: The undisputed heart and soul of the *Underworld* franchise. Beckinsale's return was highly anticipated, and she delivered a performance that was both fiercely powerful and emotionally resonant. Her portrayal of Selene as a relentless, yet vulnerable, warrior grappling with motherhood in a hostile world was central to the film's success.
• Stephen Rea as Dr. Jacob Lane: Rea brings a chilling gravitas to the primary antagonist. His character, a seemingly benevolent human scientist, harbors a dark secret, making him a formidable and deceptive foe. Rea's nuanced performance adds layers of villainy and intelligence to the Lycan threat.
• Michael Ealy as Detective Sebastian: Ealy plays a human detective who initially investigates the supernatural occurrences but soon finds himself entangled in the war. His character serves as a bridge between the human world and the hidden supernatural one, providing a perspective of disbelief turning into terrifying realization.
• Theo James as David: James portrays a young vampire who aids Selene in her fight. David represents a new generation of vampires, initially disillusioned but inspired by Selene's unwavering resolve. His character introduces a fresh dynamic and hints at future leadership within the vampire coven.
• India Eisley as Eve: The revelation of Selene's hybrid daughter, Eve, is a pivotal plot point. Eisley's portrayal captures the innocence and burgeoning power of a child caught in a war far beyond her understanding. Her character's unique abilities are crucial to the narrative.

Kate Beckinsale: The Enduring Vampire Warrioress

No discussion of Underworld: Awakening, or indeed the *Underworld* franchise, would be complete without a dedicated spotlight on Kate Beckinsale. Born on July 26, 1973, in London, England, Beckinsale has carved out a distinguished career in Hollywood, but it is arguably her role as Selene that has cemented her status as an action icon.

Beckinsale's portrayal of Selene is a masterclass in blending raw physicality with a deep sense of character. From her striking gothic attire to her precise, almost balletic combat moves, she embodies the vampire Death Dealer with an intensity that is both captivating and believable. Her commitment to the role, including extensive training for the demanding action sequences, is evident in every frame. Selene is not just a character Beckinsale plays; she becomes Selene, imbuing the vampire warrioress with a stoic determination, a tragic past, and an unwavering loyalty to her cause.

In Underworld: Awakening, Beckinsale brought an added layer of emotional depth to Selene. The discovery of her daughter, Eve, introduces a maternal instinct that contrasts sharply with Selene's usual hardened demeanor. This emotional complexity, combined with her signature blend of fierce action and subtle vulnerability, made her return to the franchise an absolute triumph and a highlight of the film. Her performance is a testament to her versatility and enduring appeal as an actress capable of leading a major action franchise.

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Behind the Lens: Directing and Screenwriting Underworld: Awakening

The success of Underworld: Awakening owes much to the creative minds working behind the scenes. The film was directed by the Swedish duo Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, known for their collaborative approach and visually distinctive style. Their previous work, including the horror film *Shelter* (also known as *6 Souls*), showcased their ability to craft atmospheric and suspenseful narratives. For *Awakening*, they brought a fresh perspective to the *Underworld* universe, emphasizing a more dynamic camera style and an increased focus on practical effects mixed with CGI to create a grittier, more immediate sense of action and horror.

Mårlind and Stein took the reins from Len Wiseman, who directed the first two *Underworld* films and served as a producer and co-screenwriter for *Awakening*. Their direction for Awakening (2012) was characterized by a heightened sense of urgency and a darker, more industrial aesthetic, fitting the theme of humanity's direct assault on the supernatural world. They managed to maintain the gothic, noir-inspired visual language of the franchise while infusing it with a modern, high-octane energy. This balance was crucial in making the film feel both familiar and new.

The screenplay for Underworld: Awakening was a collaborative effort by Len Wiseman, John Hlavin, and J. Michael Straczynski. Wiseman, as the original architect of the *Underworld* saga, ensured that the core mythology remained intact while allowing for significant new developments. John Hlavin, known for his work on action-oriented television series, likely contributed to the film's relentless pacing and intense combat sequences. J. Michael Straczynski, a celebrated writer with a strong background in complex world-building (most notably with *Babylon 5*), was instrumental in expanding the lore, particularly concerning the human discovery of the supernatural species and the introduction of Eve, Selene's hybrid daughter. This combination of writing talent ensured a script that was both true to the franchise's roots and bold enough to push its narrative boundaries into uncharted territory. Their collective vision resulted in a story that was not only action-packed but also emotionally resonant, especially through Selene's journey as a newfound mother.

Action, Horror, and Visuals: The Aesthetic of Awakening

Underworld: Awakening is, at its heart, an action horror film, and it excels in delivering on both fronts. The film's aesthetic is a crucial component of its appeal, maintaining the signature gothic-industrial look of the franchise while evolving it to suit the new narrative context. The visual palette is dominated by dark blues, grays, and blacks, punctuated by the stark white of fluorescent lights in the Antigen facility and the crimson splash of blood, creating a stark, almost clinical atmosphere that underscores the brutal efficiency of the human "Purge."

The action sequences in Awakening (2012) are relentless and expertly choreographed. Selene, as always, is a force of nature, executing intricate gun-fu maneuvers and acrobatic combat with deadly precision. The directors, Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, opted for a more dynamic camera style, often employing handheld shots to immerse the viewer directly into the chaos of battle. This approach makes the fights feel more visceral and immediate, whether it's Selene navigating tight corridors filled with armed guards or engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat with enhanced Lycans. The film also features impressive set pieces, such as the climactic battle within the Antigen facility, which showcases Selene's tactical prowess and the sheer power of the newly evolved Lycans.

Beyond the action, the horror elements are effectively woven into the fabric of the film. The grotesque transformations of Lycans, the chilling scientific experiments conducted by Antigen, and the pervasive sense of dread that comes with being hunted by an overwhelming human force contribute significantly to the horror aspect. The creature design for the "super Lycans" is particularly noteworthy, presenting a more monstrous and formidable threat than previous iterations. These creatures are not just bigger; they are more agile, more resilient, and terrifyingly intelligent, raising the stakes for Selene.

Visually, the film makes effective use of both practical effects and CGI. While some CGI elements might show their age slightly, they are generally well-integrated, particularly in depicting the Lycan transformations and the more fantastical elements of Selene's abilities. The production design for Antigen, with its sterile, metallic surfaces and cold lighting, perfectly conveys the oppressive and inhumane nature of the facility. Overall, the aesthetic of Underworld: Awakening is a powerful blend of stylized action, gothic horror, and a stark, modern visual language that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

Critical Reception and Box Office Performance

When Underworld: Awakening hit theaters in 2012, it faced the usual scrutiny that comes with being the fourth installment in an established franchise. Critically, the film received mixed reviews, a common trend for the *Underworld* series. Review aggregators like Rotten Tomatoes gave it a "rotten" score, with a significant portion of critics acknowledging its visual flair and action sequences but often citing a thin plot and reliance on established tropes. Metacritic, which assigns a weighted average score, also reflected a mixed to negative reception.

Critics generally praised Kate Beckinsale's return as Selene, often highlighting her magnetic screen presence and her ability to carry the action sequences. Many reviewers found the film to be a fun, albeit mindless, action spectacle, appreciating its commitment to its specific genre niche. The new directors, Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, were commended for injecting fresh energy into the series, particularly through their dynamic camera work and emphasis on visceral combat. However, common criticisms revolved around the narrative's complexity, or lack thereof, and the feeling that the film prioritized style over substance. Some felt that the introduction of a new human-led threat, while conceptually interesting, didn't fully realize its potential.

Despite the lukewarm critical reception, Underworld: Awakening proved to be a significant commercial success. Produced on a budget of approximately $70 million, the film grossed over $160 million worldwide. This strong box office performance underscored the enduring appeal of the *Underworld* franchise and the loyalty of its fanbase, who were eager to see Selene back in action. The film's financial success demonstrated that there was still a substantial audience hungry for more of the vampire-Lycan war, ultimately paving the way for future installments. Its ability to perform well at the box office, despite critical reservations, solidified its place as a financially viable action-horror property.

The Legacy of Underworld: Awakening in the Franchise

Underworld: Awakening holds a unique and pivotal place within the broader *Underworld* franchise. Coming after a prequel that explored the origins of the war, *Awakening* brought the narrative back to the present day and, more importantly, brought back Kate Beckinsale's iconic Selene. This return was crucial for fans and for the series' continuity, re-establishing the central character's journey and emotional core.

The most significant legacy of Awakening (2012) is its radical shift in the conflict dynamic. By introducing the human "Purge," the film elevated the stakes from a hidden war between two supernatural species to an open, global extermination effort. This broadened the scope of the *Underworld* universe, making it feel larger and more dangerous. It forced Vampires and Lycans, traditional enemies, into a desperate fight for survival against a common, overwhelming foe. This narrative evolution was a bold move that kept the franchise from becoming stale, providing new avenues for conflict and character development.

Furthermore, the introduction of Eve, Selene's hybrid daughter, fundamentally altered Selene's character arc. No longer just a solitary warrior driven by vengeance, Selene became a protector, driven by maternal instinct. This added a layer of emotional depth and vulnerability to a character often portrayed as stoic and unyielding. Eve's unique abilities and her potential future role as a new type of hybrid also opened up exciting possibilities for the franchise's lore and future stories.

While critically divisive, Underworld: Awakening was a commercial success, demonstrating the franchise's enduring popularity and proving that audiences were still invested in Selene's saga. Its financial performance ensured that the *Underworld* story could continue, leading to the subsequent film, *Underworld: Blood Wars*. In essence, *Awakening* served as a vital bridge, reconnecting with the series' roots while boldly expanding its narrative horizons, solidifying its place as a key chapter in the ongoing vampire-Lycan epic. It reminded everyone why Selene remains one of the most compelling female action heroes in modern cinema.

Where to Watch Underworld: Awakening Today

For fans eager to revisit Selene's harrowing escape and her fierce battle against new enemies, or for newcomers looking to dive into the action-packed world of Vampires and Lycans, finding out how and where to watch Underworld: Awakening is straightforward. As a popular film from 2012, it has made its way onto various digital platforms, ensuring accessibility for a wide audience.

Here are the common ways you can watch Underworld: Awakening today:

• Streaming Services: The film is frequently available on major subscription streaming platforms. Availability can vary by region and over time, but it often appears on services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or HBO Max (now Max). It's always a good idea to check your preferred streaming service's library for its current availability.
• Digital Rental/Purchase: If it's not on a subscription service you already have, you can easily rent or purchase Underworld: Awakening digitally. Platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, YouTube, Apple TV, Vudu, and Microsoft Store offer the film for rent (typically for a 48-hour viewing window) or for permanent digital ownership. This is a reliable option for immediate access.
• Blu-ray/DVD: For those who prefer physical media, Underworld: Awakening is widely available on Blu-ray and DVD. This option often provides the best audio and video quality, along with bonus features like behind-the-scenes documentaries, deleted scenes, and director commentaries, which can offer deeper insights into the film's production.
• Cable/Satellite TV: Keep an eye on movie channels on your cable or satellite TV provider. Action and horror channels frequently air films from the *Underworld* series.

Before you watch trailers & learn more about the film, consider checking the specific platform you intend to use for the most up-to-date availability and pricing information. Whether you're looking for a quick rental for a movie night or a permanent addition to your film collection, Underworld: Awakening is readily accessible for your viewing pleasure.

Conclusion

Underworld: Awakening proved to be a pivotal and exhilarating chapter in the long-running saga of Selene and the eternal war between Vampires and Lycans. It successfully brought back Kate Beckinsale in her iconic role, injecting new life and emotional depth into the character with the introduction of her hybrid daughter, Eve. The film boldly shifted the narrative focus, introducing humanity as a formidable new enemy, thereby raising the stakes and expanding the universe in thrilling ways.

Under the direction of Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, and with a compelling screenplay from Len Wiseman, John Hlavin, and J. Michael Straczynski, Awakening (2012) delivered relentless action, striking visuals, and a compelling continuation of the gothic horror narrative. While its critical reception was mixed, its strong box office performance undeniably cemented its place as a fan favorite and ensured the franchise's future. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Selene's fierce resolve and the dark, intricate world she inhabits.

If you've revisited Underworld: Awakening recently, or if this article has sparked your interest to watch it for the first time, we'd love to hear your thoughts! What did you find most compelling about Selene's return? Which action sequence stood out to you? Share your comments below, and don't forget to share this article with fellow *Underworld* enthusiasts. For more deep dives into your favorite action and horror films, explore other articles on our site!