Subspecies V: Blood Rise

It's been 25 long years since the release of Subspecies IV, so it's hard to believe this sequel even exists. Better still, it's actually a good movie! We live in an age of disappointing reboots, but this isn't one of them.

Of course, you have to grade movies like Subspecies on a curve. Is Blood Rise a conventionally good film? Probably not, but it's solid by B-movie standards. The music, costumes, and cinematography all exceed expectations; clearly, this was a labor of love for the production team. The makeup and special effects are more erratic, but still admirable given the low budget. The location filming in Serbia is excellent and preserves the unique European flavor of the series.

Most importantly, Anders Hove effortlessly slides back into the role of Radu - a repulsive yet somehow sympathetic character, and one of cinema's coolest vampires. As with the earlier entries, he's the best thing in the movie by miles, but the supporting cast is pretty solid. Notably, Hove plays the role seriously this time and isn't as campy as before, which might disappoint fans who enjoy the more overt comedy of the previous films ("Muuuummy!")

The plot of Subspecies V is merely okay, alas. It jumps around in time a lot, meaning that some situations can feel rushed and underdeveloped. Also, there's a conspicuous lack of action and crowd scenes - betraying the limitations of making a period-piece movie without enough money. Still, the film is good at glossing over its weaknesses and playing to its strengths, like mood and character.

I think Ted Nicolaou wanted to make a strong directorial statement with this film, by demonstrating that it's possible to create a serious and impactful Subspecies movie in 2023. While I personally prefer the more fun approach of the previous films, I was impressed by what he achieved here. This is probably the best Subspecies movie since part 2, and it's a nice blend of nostalgia and new ideas.

So...can we get a sixth one?

Ted Nicolau is one of the most underrated B-filmmakers out there.

And- aside from TerrorVision- the Subspecies series is his crowning achievement.

Now in it's fifth installation, Blood Rise harkens back to a time since past, to give us the backstory of Radu.

Showing us what he was like before he was a vampire.

A Templar knight- and man of compassion- sworn to protect the Bloodstone.

Up until the moment he gave in to temptation, and was turned into a vampire.

Making this film a prequel to the rest of the series.

Because it was only after he was turned, that he was initiated with the occult knowledge of the dark arts.

And it was only with these powers, that he was able to become the villain we've come to know so well.

He takes on two fledglings of his own.

A couple troubadours, whose music he is allured by.

Only to trade them off for access to the Bloodstone.

As the blood it provides make vampires trip balls.

That's why it's all about the Bloodstone, baby.

The creature effects in this are quite well done.

With Radu taking on a particularly Nosferatu look.

The plot, however, could use a bit of nuance to it, though.

As it's construction is a bit too simplistic.

But it's entertaining enough.

And not a disappointing addition to the series.

As long as you don't expect it to be more than another gothic episode in the dark soap opera that is Subspecies.

5.5 out of 10.

Was blessed to see the film premiere at Horrorhound Weekend...OMG Ted knocked it out of the park....the cinematography, the landscapes, the score, the poetic dialogue, and our cast was amazing...Anders's evolution as Radu from crusader to vampire lord was nothing short of badass.... Denice Duff as new character Helena is a very memorable different character for her....her performance is awe-inspiring. Kevin Spiritas was once Mel Thompson, U. S. Embassy in parts 2 and 3 and now he becomes the role Angus Scrimm was in the original SS...He is King Vladislas the father of Radu...we are also brought into the world of musicians Ash and his sister Ariel (Stasa Nikovic who was so sweet to meet) very vulnerable and deadly...the Bloodstone is there....i could go on and on but see this movie when it comes out ASAP.

The "Rise" portion of the title let's you know what you're in for here. This film serves as the origin story for the primary character of the franchise, Radu Vladislas - once again brilliantly portrayed by franchise regular Anders Hove. Here, the film largely succeeds in humanizing the franchise's monstrous and iconic villain.

I was fortunate enough to catch this on its one day only theatrical release at my local Alamo Drafthouse and enjoyed the post feature making of and interviews with the cast and crew held by Charles Band. In addition to successfully humanizing Radu as a character, I have to also praise the technical aspects of the film as it looks and sounds great- easily sporting the most polished cinematography of the series. I found myself hoping they expound on a couple of the plot points and make a Subspecies VI. Hopefully if another entry is made it doesn't take another 20 years.

I didn't know that there was a part five of the "Subspecies" movies even being made. And thus, imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon this movie from Full Moon Features by random chance here in 2023. I enjoyed the first three movies in the franchise, though I never had the chance to watch the fourth movie. But still, I opted to sit down and watch this fifth movie regardless of not having seen part four.

The storyline in "Subspecies V: Blood Rise" was adequate enough, though personally I don't understand why they opted for an origin story. But it made for adequate enough entertainment, nonetheless.

It sort of is a bit strange that they opted to do an origin story 32 years after the original first "Subspecies" movie was released. But still, it was nice to see Anders Hove return to the role of Radu Vladislas, nonetheless.

The acting performances in "Subspecies V: Blood Rise" were fair. It was mostly an all unfamiliar cast ensemble, aside from Anders Hove and Kevin Spirtas. However, it should be noted that the actors and actresses did put on generally good performances throughout the course of the movie.

Visually then "Subspecies V: Blood Rise" was okay. Though, you're not in for a grand spectacle of special effects or anything. But the special effects were suitable enough, given the premise of the movie. It was, however, a pleasure thing to watch Radu's gradual decay and change from human to the monstrous vampire creature he came to be.

Was the 2023 movie "Subspecies V: Blood Rise" from writer and director Ted Nicolaou, whom has served as a director throughout the entire franchise, a necessary movie to add to the "Subspecies" franchise? In my honest opinion, hardly so. But it was watchable for what it turned out to be. I doubt, however, that I will ever return to watch it a second time.

It should be noted that there certainly was something nostalgic about hearing the theme of the "Subspecies" movies again in a new interpretation in the movie. It was somewhat hauntingly beautiful.

My rating of "Subspecies V: Blood Rise" lands on a five out of ten stars.