Image Source: Sony Pictures
The first decade of Kate Beckinsale’s film career was filled with dramas and the occasional romantic comedy, showcasing her emotional range but keeping her far from the explosive world of action filmmaking. Kate Beckinsale revealed early on that she never expected to enter the action genre, yet that changed dramatically with the arrival of Underworld, the 2003 supernatural thriller that redefined her career and introduced audiences to one of the genre’s most enduring characters. As publicity for the film began, Kate Beckinsale revealed just how unsure she initially felt about taking on such a demanding role.
What Kate Beckinsale Revealed About Stepping Into Action for the First Time
Cast as Selene, a fierce vampire assassin, Beckinsale was suddenly tasked with mastering stunt work, wire choreography, and the physical intensity required for a large scale action franchise. At the time the movie opened, she openly admitted she was not sure she could measure up to the demanding expectations of the genre.
Those doubts did not last long. Underworld quickly became a hit, launching a franchise that continued for four sequels and turning Beckinsale into one of Hollywood’s most surprising action stars.
What Kate Beckinsale Revealed About Becoming an Action Star
Following the film’s success, Beckinsale embraced the action world even further, taking on major roles that pushed her physical abilities and widened her range. She starred in Van Helsing alongside Hugh Jackman, brought grit to the crime thriller Contraband opposite Mark Wahlberg, and returned to science fiction action in the remake of Total Recall. These films helped solidify her reputation as an actress capable of pairing emotional depth with the demanding intensity of action driven performances.
The Legacy of Selene and a Career Defining Turn
At the time of the first film’s release, Selene quickly became one of the most recognizable characters in modern vampire cinema, and Underworld stood as a pivotal moment in Beckinsale’s career, the film that proved she could lead a major action franchise despite her initial uncertainty. Two decades later, the character’s impact endures and her performance remains one of the genre’s defining portrayals.
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Watch the Original Underworld Trailer
Revisiting the original trailer offers a reminder of how boldly Underworld blended gothic style, vampire lore, and sleek action, and why Beckinsale’s performance immediately captured fan attention.
Where To Watch Underworld
Underworld is available on DVD, Blu ray, 4K, and most major digital platforms, and is also streaming on Tubi.
