The movie begins in the Dark Ages, when Vampires rule over the Lycans, a subjugated race bred to serve as slaves and protect the Vampires during daylight. The Lycans are led by Lucian (Michael Sheen), the first of his kind—a Lycan born of human form who can transform at will, unlike the wild, uncontrollable werewolves. Lucian is raised under the rule of Viktor (Bill Nighy), the ruthless Vampire Elder, who recognizes his potential but sees him as a tool for the Vampires’ benefit.
Despite Viktor’s tyranny, Lucian and Viktor’s daughter, Sonja (Rhona Mitra), develop a forbidden romantic relationship. Sonja, a Death Dealer herself, shares Lucian’s dream of freedom but struggles with her loyalty to her father. Their secret love becomes the emotional core of the story, driving both characters to risk everything for one another.
Lucian eventually rallies his fellow Lycans, inspiring them to rise against their oppressors. The rebellion begins when Lucian escapes captivity using a key crafted from silver—a material deadly to Lycans. Freeing other enslaved Lycans and enlisting the aid of wild werewolves, Lucian forms an army to challenge the Vampires’ dominance.
The film reaches its emotional climax when Viktor discovers Sonja’s betrayal. Despite her pleas and her revelation that she is carrying Lucian’s child, Viktor condemns her to death by exposing her to sunlight. Lucian, devastated and enraged by her execution, leads an all-out assault against the Vampires.
The rebellion marks the beginning of the enduring war between the two factions. Lucian emerges as the leader of the Lycans, vowing to destroy Viktor and the Vampire hierarchy. Meanwhile, Viktor retreats, laying the groundwork for the events of the original Underworld film.
Underworld: Rise of the Lycans provides a tragic yet compelling origin story, emphasizing the deep emotional and ideological roots of the Vampire-Lycan conflict. The film’s gothic aesthetic, intense action sequences, and powerful performances make it a standout prequel in the franchise.
