# Rise of the Lycans
_Rise of the Lycans_ (2009) is the third installment in the _Underworld_ series, but it serves as a prequel to the original films, delving into the deep-rooted conflict between vampires and Lycans (werewolves). Directed by Patrick Tatopoulos, this dark fantasy action movie offers an origin story that explains how the brutal war between these two supernatural species began. The movie focuses on the rise of Lucian, the first Lycan, and his rebellion against the vampire aristocracy, led by Viktor. With epic battles, tragic romance, and stunning special effects, _Rise of the Lycans_ captures the intensity of the Underworld universe.
In this article, we’ll explore the movie’s plot, key characters, themes, and why it’s a standout entry in the _Underworld_ series.
The movie takes place centuries before the events of the first _Underworld_ film. Lycans, a species of werewolves with the ability to transform between human and wolf forms, are enslaved by the vampire ruling class, known as the Death Dealers. Viktor, the vampire overlord, uses the Lycans as labor and soldiers to protect his fortress from external threats.
At the center of the story is **Lucian**, the first of the Lycans born with the ability to change form at will. He rises through the ranks as Viktor’s favored slave. However, Lucian’s forbidden romance with **Sonja**, Viktor’s daughter, triggers a rebellion. As Lucian leads the Lycans in a violent uprising, tensions between the two species erupt into full-scale war.
The movie’s climax is a tragic and brutal battle that sets the stage for the centuries-long conflict seen in the original _Underworld_ films. Lucian’s rise to power marks the birth of the Lycan revolution, and the vampire-vs-werewolf feud is solidified as a central theme of the franchise.
1. **Lucian (Michael Sheen)**
Lucian is the first Lycan born with the ability to shift between human and wolf form. As the protagonist, his journey from a loyal servant to the leader of a rebellion is compelling. Michael Sheen brings depth to the character, portraying Lucian as both fierce and compassionate. His love for Sonja and his desire to free his people from vampire oppression drive the narrative forward.
2. **Viktor (Bill Nighy)**
Viktor is the cold and calculating vampire elder who rules with an iron fist. Bill Nighy’s portrayal of Viktor is chilling, as he embodies the ruthless nature of the vampire aristocracy. His relationship with Lucian is complex—he sees Lucian as a valuable asset, but his disdain for Lycans ultimately fuels the conflict. Viktor’s betrayal of his daughter Sonja adds layers of tragedy to the story.
3. **Sonja (Rhona Mitra)**
Sonja is Viktor’s daughter and Lucian’s secret lover. As a warrior and vampire, she’s torn between her loyalty to her father and her love for Lucian. Rhona Mitra’s performance gives Sonja strength and vulnerability, making her one of the film’s most memorable characters. Her tragic fate is central to Lucian’s motivation and the war that follows.
4. **Raze (Kevin Grevioux)**
Raze is Lucian’s loyal second-in-command. A powerful Lycan, Raze is instrumental in the rebellion against the vampires. His unwavering loyalty to Lucian makes him a key figure in the rise of the Lycans.
5. **Rebellion and Freedom**
At its core, _Rise of the Lycans_ is about rebellion against oppression. The Lycans, led by Lucian, fight for their freedom from the tyrannical rule of the vampires. The film explores themes of liberation, the cost of war, and the struggle for autonomy. Lucian’s journey from a servant to a revolutionary leader is the embodiment of the fight for freedom, making it a powerful narrative for viewers.
6. **Forbidden Love**
The romance between Lucian and Sonja is a classic tale of forbidden love, reminiscent of _Romeo and Juliet_. Their relationship is doomed from the start, as the rigid class system of the vampire world forbids their union. Their love not only humanizes Lucian but also highlights the tragic consequences of a world divided by prejudice and power.
7. **Betrayal and Tragedy**
The theme of betrayal is central to the movie, with Viktor’s ultimate betrayal of his daughter Sonja being one of the film’s most heartbreaking moments. The tragedy that follows Sonja’s execution serves as the catalyst for Lucian’s rebellion and the start of the vampire-werewolf war. This theme of loss and betrayal gives the film emotional depth, elevating it beyond a simple action movie.
8. **Power and Class Division**
The movie also explores the dynamics of power and class. The vampires, led by Viktor, represent the ruling elite, while the Lycans are the oppressed lower class. Lucian’s rebellion symbolizes the fight against a corrupt and hierarchical system. This theme resonates throughout the _Underworld_ series, but _Rise of the Lycans_ brings it to the forefront.
_Rise of the Lycans_ excels in its visual effects and action scenes. The transformation sequences, where Lycans shift from human to wolf form, are executed with stunning CGI that enhances the immersive experience. The battle scenes are brutal and well-choreographed, showcasing the raw power of the Lycans against the precision and skill of the vampires.
The dark, gothic aesthetic of the _Underworld_ series is maintained in this prequel, with sweeping shots of the vampire fortress, misty forests, and moonlit battlefields adding to the atmosphere. The film’s moody, atmospheric visuals create a sense of foreboding and suspense, heightening the drama of the war between the two species.
1. **Epic Backstory**
As a prequel, _Rise of the Lycans_ fills in crucial backstory details for the _Underworld_ series. It offers fans insight into how the war between the vampires and werewolves started, making it essential viewing for those invested in the franchise. The film deepens the lore of the _Underworld_ universe, adding layers to characters like Lucian and Viktor.
2. **Emotional Depth**
While _Rise of the Lycans_ is packed with action, it also has emotional depth, particularly through the tragic love story between Lucian and Sonja. Their doomed romance adds a layer of humanity to the supernatural conflict, making the characters relatable and sympathetic. The theme of sacrifice is powerful, and the film successfully blends high-stakes drama with heart-wrenching moments.
3. **Strong Performances**
The film boasts strong performances, particularly from Michael Sheen as Lucian and Bill Nighy as Viktor. Sheen portrays Lucian with a blend of vulnerability and strength, while Nighy brings a cold, calculating menace to Viktor. Rhona Mitra’s portrayal of Sonja adds emotional weight to the film, making her character’s fate all the more tragic.
4. **Immersive World-Building**
The _Underworld_ franchise is known for its detailed world-building, and _Rise of the Lycans_ continues this tradition. The film further expands on the mythology of vampires and Lycans, introducing audiences to the inner workings of the vampire aristocracy and the origins of the werewolf rebellion. Fans of dark fantasy and gothic horror will appreciate the film’s immersive world and lore.
_Rise of the Lycans_ is a thrilling and emotionally resonant prequel that enriches the _Underworld_ saga. With its gripping storyline, intense action sequences, and compelling characters, the movie stands out as a key entry in the franchise. Whether you’re a fan of vampire and werewolf mythology or simply enjoy action-packed fantasy films, _Rise of the Lycans_ delivers a captivating cinematic experience that delves into the heart of the centuries-old war between these two iconic species.
