The fourth installment in the Underworld series, Underworld: Awakening, one once again stars Kate Beckinsale. Directed by Måns Mårlind and Björn Stein, Kate's husband, Len Wiseman, who directed Underworld and Underworld Evolution, returns as a producer. This one is in 3D because it would be tragic to let this fad pass this franchise by. Screen Gems has released four new photos (after having yanked the posters that hit the web a week or so ago. This must be a peace offering.)

The story: When human forces discover the existence of the Vampire and Lycan clans, a war to eradicate both species commences. The vampire warrioress Selene (Beckinsale) leads the battle against humankind. This time out, Michael Ealy has jumped aboard as a detective who will eventually join forces with Selene and the vamps.

While Underworld Awakening will have Stephen Rea,Theo James, India Eisley and Charles Dance, it will not have Michael Sheen, althought don’t hold me to that. Some sources are reporting that both Sheen and Bill Nighy will return.  There’s also a rumor that Selene’s Lycan lover Michael, played by Scott Speedman, may show up.  Underworld Awakening opens January 20 in both the US and the UK.