By now, you’ve probably heard of Netflix’s new offerings this July, which include movies from the popular Underworld franchise. It’s the talk of the digital town, especially among dark fantasy horror aficionados. This franchise, which started in 2003, has everything you crave: action, horror, romance, and a gripping narrative that spans five feature films and an animated short collection.
“Since the first film was launched back in 2003, five feature films and one animated short collection have been released, with more entries in the saga still a distinct possibility in the future.”
But hold on—before you dive right in, you might be wondering what the best viewing order is. Well, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down your options.
The Star-Studded Cast of Underworld
Before we get to the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about the franchise’s glittering star power. Kate Beckinsale, the queen of action-packed fantasy, reigns as Selene in almost all the films. She even makes a guest appearance at the end of the one film she doesn’t headline. Add big names like Bill Nighy and Michael Sheen to the mix, and you’ve got an ensemble that packs a punch.
“Kate Beckinsale takes on the lead role of Selene in all but one of the features (and makes a brief appearance at the end of the other) while other big-name actors including Bill Nighy and Michael Sheen have also played prominent roles throughout the franchise.”
A Simple Guide to Watching Underworld: Release Order
If you’re a purist who wants to experience the movies the way first-time fans did, it’s a fairly straightforward journey. Most of the films are conveniently available for streaming—Netflix offers the first four, while Prime Video has the final installment.
The binge-list by release order:
- Underworld (2003)
- Underworld Evolution (2006)
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)
- Underworld: Endless War (2011)
- Underworld Awakening (2012)
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
“Most of them are available to watch with streaming subscriptions – the first four features on Netflix and the final one on Prime Video.”
A Chronological Spin: Another Way to Watch
For those who love piecing together storylines from origin to conclusion, there’s a different sequence. The only tweak you’ll need to make is to start with Underworld: Rise of the Lycans—the 2009 film that serves as a prequel to the series.
The binge-list in chronological order:
- Underworld: Rise of the Lycans (2009)
- Underworld (2003)
- Underworld Evolution (2006)
- Underworld: Endless War (2011)
- Underworld Awakening (2012)
- Underworld: Blood Wars (2016)
“If you’d rather watch the films in the order of events, then there’s only one change to your viewing schedule. 2009 film Underworld: Rise of the Lycans is a prequel, and so should be watched before the other installments.”
Let the Binge-Watching Begin!
Alright, you’re equipped with all the knowledge you need to delve into the Underworld saga. So grab that popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for an enthralling journey of vampires, werewolves, and the wars that rage between them. Whether you go with the release order or the chronological order, you’re in for a treat. Happy watching!
