Underworld: Evolution

The video presentation of "Underworld: Evolution" on 4K UHD Blu-ray marks a commendable leap forward from the 2006 MPEG-2 encoded Blu-ray release, included for comparative purposes. From the outset, the 4K UHD disc distinguishes itself with deeper and more vibrant reds in the opening text, against a backdrop of firmer, inkier blacks. While the gap between the two releases spans over 15 years, the visual upgrade, though subtle in some respects, becomes substantially evident as the film progresses. The film's distinctive black and blue palette benefits greatly from the 2160p/HDR treatment, improving contrast and adding nuance to shades. Skin tones receive a welcome boost in intensity, with blue eyes gaining notable vibrancy, and whites showcasing a stark contrast enhancement that elevates the overall viewing experience. The HDR grading’s enhancement of texture adds a significant layer of depth to the visuals.

The 4K UHD presentation retains a pleasingly cinematic quality, showcasing an organic and evenly distributed grain structure that brings us closer to the original filmic intent. In comparison to the older Blu-ray version, which still presents a respectable image by older standards, the 4K UHD version excels in delivering superior detail in facial features, clothing textures, and environmental crispness. This leap in visual clarity and textural richness greatly contributes to a more immersive and accurate representation of the film’s dark and stylized world. Despite some inherent challenges with crush in dark scenes and occasional CG-induced artifacts, the overall cleanliness and precision of the encode ensures a faithful and stunning filmic presentation.

Notably, "Underworld: Evolution" embraces its signature blue aesthetic with even greater zeal than its predecessor, with HDR's deep color palette adding only minor density to the predominantly cool visuals. The sequel's 4K scan results in an image that feels fresher and more precise, despite being locked to a 2K finish. The grain layer is minimal, maintaining the film's intended look without detracting from detail or introducing issues. Shadows and blacks are rendered with impressive depth, although some challenges with brightness in highlights persist due to the original cinematography's use of fluorescent lighting. Nonetheless, elements like fire and certain light sources manage to pierce through with commendable brightness, rounding out a video presentation that substantially improves upon its previous incarnations and offers fans an upgraded visual feast.

Sony's 4K UHD presentation of "Underworld: Evolution" boasts a Dolby Atmos soundtrack that can only be described as a masterwork of audio engineering, creating an immersive sonic experience that showcases the format's capabilities to their fullest. From the opening battle through the entirety of the film, the Atmos track envelops the listener in a meticulously crafted audio environment. The balance struck between the score and the effects—ranging from the roar of battle to the subtler moments—is nothing short of harmonious. The mix excels in using an aggressive yet controlled approach to surround sound, with a standout performance in directional audio cues and environmental ambient sounds that pull the viewer right into the heart of the action.

In scenes crowded with modern-day warfare where music and gunfire compete for dominance, the soundtrack handles this juggle with remarkable finesse. Gunshots have a crisp realism, with an auditory precision that complements the visual chaos on screen, making each encounter notably impactful. Bass is assertive without overpowering, lending a palpable weight to both physical confrontations and the movie’s more explosive moments. This is further enhanced by the nuanced use of overhead channels, which add depth to the soundscape through strategic elements like thunder and helicopter blades, creating an added layer of intensity.

Dialogue remains impeccably clear throughout, steering clear of being drowned out by the film's more robust sound elements, thereby maintaining narrative clarity amidst the cacophony. The audio mix manages a delicate balancing act, delivering an unrelenting, dynamic experience that supports and amplifies the visual spectacle without veering into excess. The result is a thoroughly immersive auditory journey that complements the film's dramatic visuals perfectly, making "Underworld: Evolution's" audio presentation a testament to the potential of high-definition sound in enhancing cinematic immersion.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray of "Underworld: Evolution" offers a blend of promotional and in-depth materials aimed at both casual viewers and dedicated fans. The high-definition theatrical trailer provides a crisp preview, while the Blu-ray disc, mirroring Sony's 2006 release, includes an extensive array of extras. Key among these is a detailed audio commentary track featuring director Len Wiseman and key production staff, offering insights into the film's creation. Complementary to this, six featurettes delve into various aspects of the production, from concept to execution, including design, special effects, and music, amounting to over an hour of content. These pieces are slightly dated but rich in detail, providing a comprehensive look at the creative process behind "Underworld: Evolution." A music video and previews of other titles are also included, alongside digital copy access for added convenience.

Extras included in this disc:

• Theatrical Trailer: A high-definition preview of the film.
• Audio Commentary: Insights from Director Len Wiseman, Production Designer Patrick Tatopoulos, Second Unit Director Brad Martin, and Editor Nick De Toth.
• Bloodlines: From Script to Screen: Exploration of the film's development.
• The Hybrid Theory: Focus on the movie's creature designs.
• Making Monsters Roar: Behind-the-scenes look at the film's special effects.
• The War Rages On: Examination of the film's action sequences.
• Building a Saga: Discussion on the broader Underworld universe.
• Music and Mayhem: Insights into the film's score and sound design.
• Music Video: Additional entertainment content.
• Previews: Sneak peeks at other titles.

Underworld: Evolution," released as part of Sony's ambitious move to bring the 2006 action-horror sequel into the 4K UHD format, marks a significant leap from the original MPEG-2 Blu-ray disc released in the early days of the format. This new edition boasts an impressive 2160p/HDR video presentation paired with state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos audio, ensuring that both avid fans and newcomers to the franchise are treated to a visual and auditory spectacle that significantly enhances the viewing experience. This release is exclusively available as part of the five-film 'Underworld' UHD collection boxed set, indicating Sony's confidence in the film's enduring popularity.

The narrative thrust of "Underworld: Evolution" delves into the murky depths of its lore with a prologue set in 1202 A.D., introducing viewers to pivotal characters Marcus and William Corvinus, juxtaposed against the contemporary quest of Selene and Michael. This sequel shifts its focus sharply towards action, eschewing the intricate vampire-werewolf hierarchy that characterized its predecessor for a more direct confrontation between our protagonists and the awakened vampire Marcus. While this pivot lends itself to an exhilarating array of fight scenes, it concurrently strips the saga of the nuanced exploration of its own mythos, rendering the narrative somewhat flat. The obligatory romance between Selene and Michael feels underexplored, primarily serving as a device to propel the action forward rather than as a meaningful development in its own right.

Indeed, where "Underworld: Evolution" shines is in its commitment to delivering high-octane action sequences. The film capitalizes on creative choreography and practical effects to bring its monstrous confrontations to life, with particular emphasis on showcasing Kate Beckinsale's Selene in all her lethal glory. However, this focus occasionally tips into gratuitous territory, with certain scenes prioritizing style over substance. Despite these criticisms, the sequel manages to maintain a relentless pace, with each set piece building momentum towards an inevitably bloody crescendo. It's in these moments—where claws meet flesh and bullets tear through darkness—that "Underworld: Evolution" finds its strength, even if it occasionally loses sight of the rich narrative potential simmering beneath its surface.

Underworld: Evolution" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray presents a spectacle for the senses, boasting remarkable video and audio enhancements that rejuvenate this chapter of the dark and brooding vampire saga. While the film treks through its lore with blood and violence aplenty, it's evident that this upgrade is targeted towards the franchise's aficionados. The fidelity and clarity offered by the 4K presentation enrich what is a visually striking film, enhancing details in the shadow-laden, contrast-heavy cinematography that defines the Underworld aesthetic. This release proves itself as a substantial improvement over its Blu-ray counterpart, which, despite aging gracefully, is outclassed by the sheer technological advancements embodied in this 4K rendition.

However, the expansion of the series' mythos and the enhanced action sequences can't mask the deficiencies in narrative depth and character development. The film’s inclination towards action at the expense of substance results in a viewing experience that struggles to fully engage the audience beyond the surface-level excitement. While the technical aspects of this release, including the meticulous sound design that complements the visual upgrade, are commendable, they serve as enhancements to a film that fundamentally lacks in compelling storytelling and emotional investment. Fans committed to the Underworld universe will undoubtedly appreciate the technical merits and the dedication to expanding its lore, even if the plot feels somewhat rehashed and uninvolved.

In conclusion, "Underworld: Evolution" on 4K UHD Blu-Ray emerges primarily as a treat for the saga's enthusiasts, offering a significant audio-visual upgrade that breathes new life into its stylized action sequences and gothic atmospherics. Despite this, the film's core issues with plot and character depth persist, rendering it a release that shines in presentation but fades in narrative engagement. For collectors and series devotees, this edition is recommended for its technical achievements and loyalty to the franchise's visual identity, though it may leave others longing for more substance beneath its polished surface.