Absolutely the best of its genre

Rating: 10/10 (8 March 2005)

I've watched this movie about 20 times now, and I've ordered a copy for myself because it's the best Goth-themed movie anyone has produced so far. (I have high hopes for the sequel.)
*Slight Spoilers*
The plot was ingenious. The idea of the Vampires having at one time enslaved the Lycans (werewolves) and later warring with them for centuries created an interesting dynamic. The look and the feel of the film was perfect - beautiful, spoiled, elitist vampires in lush dark environs; coarser, but more sympathetic Lycans (once you got to know them). Every part was well cast and well-acted.
I was particularly impressed with Kate Beckinsale. I'd only ever seen her in a Jane Austen production, and you'd never know it was the same girl. Despite her petite frame, she played the part of warrior ferociously. She had a darker, more sullen approach to her character than is usually written for a woman in an action film.
Scott Speedman is easy to love, of course, but I initially had my doubts about him in the role of Michael Corvin. Somehow, I never pictured him in an action role. I was pleasantly surprised that he can appear so fragile one moment and kick ass the next. The relationship between Michael and Selene will make or break the sequel. I can't wait.