“B” Rating by Robert W. Hammerle

Quite honestly, I thought this movie was the best of the trilogy. As a story, it was much more subtle, not to mention less hammy, than the first two, particularly the second one.

Additionally, it was helped immensely by the performances of Michael Sheen, Bill Nighy and Rhona Mitra. All three are accomplished actors in their own right, and they bring a sense of serious purpose to their role as mythological characters that elevates a simply werewolf/vampire movie into a very good werewolf/vampire movie.

In particular, Michael Sheen is most convincing as Lucian, the werewolf held as a slave by the vampire world that is destined to lead the werewolf revolt from their bondage. Looking at the bearded Mr. Sheen, it is almost impossible to recognize him as the actor who turned in such extraordinarily fine performances as Prime Minister Tony Blair in “The Queen” (2006) and as David Frost in this year’s Oscar nominated “Frost/Nixon.” This is one fine actor.

Bill Nighy has a grand old time playing Viktor, the leader of the vampire colony. I have got to say that he is the most convincing vampire to come along since the legendary days of Bella Lugosi. Mr. Nighy is one of the few performers who can so convincingly jump from such diverse roles as an aging comedic rock singer in “Love Actually” (2003) to the tenacly challenged Davy Jones in the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series.

Finally there is Ms. Mitra, who I have a strong feeling we will hear from quite soon in more mainstream roles. She was a treat to watch as the daring, sultry vampire lover of the werewolf Lucian. She makes you believe in her character, and did I say that she is drop-dead gorgeous?

This is an entertaining, action packed fantasy film that mixes its requisite potion of gore with an engaging subplot that more than holds your interest. In particular, make sure you watch the ending scenes after the movie’s climax.

I have always thought one of the sexier images in films occurred in “Underworld I” where Kate Beckinsale’s vampire was seen posing on a ledge in a long leather coat and high-heeled boots, looking down on the city from high above. Thereafter, she suddenly jumps off, landing in slow motion as she rises seductively from a crouch.

This movie, although only momentarily, revisits that glorious scene. In the immortal comment of Neo in the first “Matrix” (1999), “Whoa.”