After "Rise of the Lycans" I'm glad to find Selene/(and what would have been) Michael taking centre stage again. Not that it was a bad film but I feel that the flashbacks in the original was sufficient enough to explain what had happened.

As for Awakening, I had low expectations going into the theatre and afterwards felt that the film itself was a good solid entry on par with the first two. After thinking about it some days later I appreciate it a little more and it definately knocks Evolution off the No.2 spot (No.1 being the original).

It takes awhile to get into the groove because the beginning parts remind me more of a zombie apocalypse opening with the handheld cameras, military presence in the big city, mass hysteria and exterminations.
After that is a massive escape/action sequence where Selene goes headless chicken and brutally slaughters a load of humans without blinking an eye, which is rather shocking. Yeah she's a Death Dealer but it was weird seeing her off humans in the same cold manner as she does Lycans.
I felt the connection between her and the girl "Eve" was appropriate. It would have been very annoying if they suddenly altered the character of Selene make her seem more caring and warm. Also, I'm very surprised by how well "Eve" was portrayed- as a horrified and frightened little girl both vulnerable and dangerous at the same time.
Another great addition to the character roster is David the Whip Boy (& co). He had some of the cheesiest lines but his ambitions filled in the lack of Vampire mythology which is what gives the Underworld series a sense of depth. With most if not all of the Elders now dead, it's interesting to see how this new world will turn out. Clearly, Selene/Michael/Eve will have a pivotal role in the future struggle of Humans vs Vampires vs Lycans.

Overall, the main issues I have with the film are the same as everyone elses (critics not included); the running time and lack of Scott Speedman, otherwise, I look forward to Underworld 5.