Fans of gothic horror and thrilling action will be thrilled by the newly released trailer for Van Helsing 2: The Dark Rise (2025), a long-awaited sequel to the 2004 blockbuster that starred Hugh Jackman as the iconic monster hunter. This new installment promises to dive deeper into the shadowy world of supernatural creatures, bringing an even darker tone and more intense action sequences than its predecessor.
In the highly anticipated Van Helsing 2, Hugh Jackman reprises his role as Gabriel Van Helsing, the legendary monster hunter who has faced off against vampires, werewolves, and other horrifying beasts. This time, however, Van Helsing must confront an even greater evil that threatens not just his world, but the very fabric of reality itself. Joining him in this perilous mission is a new ally: Ana de Armas, playing a fierce and enigmatic character whose past is intertwined with the dark forces Van Helsing is trying to defeat.
The trailer opens with a chilling scene set in a dark and stormy night, as Van Helsing hunts an elusive new creature, whose identity is shrouded in mystery. The tone is immediately set as an intense, atmospheric thriller, with the constant threat of danger lurking around every corner. Van Helsing’s usual weaponry — from silver stakes to deadly crossbows — will be put to the test against even more formidable enemies.
However, it’s clear that this time, the monsters aren’t just lurking in the shadows. A new, powerful antagonist is emerging, one who commands an army of nightmarish creatures, making this battle unlike any Van Helsing has faced before. The trailer hints at a dark prophecy tied to the rise of this new evil, which may have ties to Van Helsing’s own past, creating a personal vendetta that fuels his hunt.
The introduction of Ana de Armas adds an exciting dynamic to the film. She plays Isla, a skilled fighter with a mysterious background and a deep knowledge of the ancient forces Van Helsing must confront. Her character seems to be more than just an ally; there’s a palpable tension between her and Van Helsing, suggesting that their collaboration may be fraught with secrets and uneasy alliances. The chemistry between Jackman and de Armas, already palpable in the brief scenes of the trailer, promises to add emotional depth to the high-stakes action.
Ana de Armas has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after talents, known for her roles in films like Knives Out (2019) and No Time to Die (2021), and her addition to the Van Helsing franchise is one of the most exciting casting choices for the upcoming movie. Her performance in the trailer suggests she will bring strength, vulnerability, and complexity to her role, complementing Jackman’s intense, brooding portrayal of the classic character.
From what we can gather in the trailer, Van Helsing 2: The Dark Rise is set to be a much darker and more intricate tale than its predecessor. The first film, directed by Stephen Sommers, was filled with action-packed sequences and over-the-top monster battles, but the sequel promises a grittier, more grounded narrative. The trailer gives us a glimpse of disturbing new creatures, and the visual effects seem to have been ramped up to create a more immersive and terrifying experience.
The gothic aesthetic is in full force, with scenes set in eerie castles, abandoned villages, and sprawling, mist-covered forests. There’s a real sense of danger, with Van Helsing and Isla facing impossible odds as they attempt to stop an ancient evil from taking over the world. With a mix of supernatural lore, horror, and action, this movie looks set to be a thrilling ride from start to finish.
The film is directed by Alexandre Aja, best known for his work on The Hills Have Eyes (2006) and Crawl (2019), bringing his expertise in creating high-tension, atmospheric horror to the Van Helsing universe. With Aja at the helm, fans can expect a visually stunning experience, with fast-paced action scenes, practical effects combined with CGI, and a dark, immersive tone that captures the essence of classic monster films while pushing the boundaries of modern horror.
The cinematography in the trailer shows off sweeping, grandiose shots of dark castles and dilapidated ruins, blending the old-world charm of classic horror with the modern, gritty edge of a fast-paced action film. The trailer’s music is equally haunting, setting the tone for the bloody and suspenseful adventure that awaits.