Luma Pictures Tapped for VFX on "Underworld II"
March 22nd, 2005 — SANTA MONICA, CA - Luma Pictures has signed on as lead visual effects provider for Underworld II, the sequel to Lakeshore Entertainment/Screen Gems 2003 blockbuster hit. This highly anticipated sequel continues the saga of war between the Death Dealers (vampires) and the Lycans (werewolves). The film traces the beginnings of the ancient feud between the two tribes as Selene (Kate Beckinsale) and Michael (Scott Speedman), the lycan hybrid, try to discover the secrets of their bloodlines. All of this takes them into the battle to end all wars as the immortals must finally face their retribution. The film is currently in production with Len Wiseman again directing.
Having played a significant role in the original Underworld feature, Luma Pictures is primed to deliver on its reputation of high quality, photo-real integration. The visual effects work for Underworld II is expected to be more ambitious than for the first film and will take advantage of Luma's expertise in CG creatures. In addition the scope of the visual effects package will include: digital matte paintings, CG set extensions, green screen composites, particle effects and other visuals to enhance the film.
The studio has just completed work on another Lakeshore/Screen Gems title, The Cave, for which it produced more than 200 visual effects shots, many involving CG creatures and CG sets. That film premieres in August.
Luma's other recent projects include Into the Blue (Mandalay Pictures/MGM), Crash (Paul Haggis Productions/Lions Gate) and A Lot Like Love (Touchstone Pictures).