Subspecies V: Blood Rise

Its crazy that it took decades for this latest installment to finally be released and even crazier that many of the cast from the 90's films were in this, I thought this was gonna be a continuation of the previous entries but instead this is a prequel which I think they(Full Moon) wanted to explain the origins of Radu probably from the beginning of the series. The story is very well presented and there was much more to work with in terms of CGI and special effects than in the previous films which made for more dramatic scenes and the story is easy to follow along with the pacing as well, I would really like to see another installment in the series to follow up on the events of Blood storm because this wouldn't make sense as the final film in the series but have no problem with this either.

Really recommend this especially if you're a fan of the 90's films for the back story to how Radu became what he is and this also explains the spin off of Vampire Journals as well, it was well done and worth the watch for sure.

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.

The 'Subspecies' franchise started way back in 1991 with the release of the low-budget B-movie 'Subspecies'. This was followed by 'Bloodstone: Subspecies 2' in 1993, 'Bloodlust: Subspecies 3' in 1994, and concluded (or so we thought) with 'Subspecies 4: Bloodstorm' in 1998. Now, 25 years later, the saga continues with 'Subspecies 5: Bloodrise'. All films were written and directed by Ted Nicolaou, and Anders Hove stars in all of them. Denice Duff stars in 'Subspecies 2-5'.

When Radu was born, Crusaders took him away, and he was raised by the Church. When he stumbles upon his Father's castle one day, he finds Helena (Denice Duff) and her son, Stefan. Believing to be victims of his Father, he pities them. Even when discovering Helena has been bitten, he still cares for them, but his compassion soon seals his fate.

I'm a bit confused by the storyline. In this film, Radu (Anders Hove) is turned into a vampire by Helena, when he is an elderly man. In the first film, Radu was born a vampire, and his brother was Stefan. I'm therefore not sure whether this is intended to be a reboot of the series, and not an actual continuation. This film revolves mainly around Radu's fledgelings, Ash and Ariel.

With budgetary constraints evident, the film is no masterpiece, but it certainly is far better than Subspecies 3 and 4, both of which were more comical. 'Subspecies 5' (thankfully) contains no comedic elements. It is more disturbing in its story and imagery than its predecessors, and a full-on horror. It shows no mercy whatsoever. Thing is, this might just be my favourite in the series thus far (Subspecies 2 was also very good). Oh, and do I smell sequel...?

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.