Underworld 5 and Niki Caro’s The Zookeeper’s Wife begin production in Prague

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

Looks like Prague is the place to be as two movies have just started production there! First up is the return of Kate Beckinsale in tight leather outfits (praise be) in UNDERWORLD 5. The ten-week shoot will take place entirely in the Czech capital and some outlying areas. Theo James will return as as Selene's ally David, reprising the role he played in UNDERWORLD: AWAKENING, for those keeping track. The plot will arrive around (surprise) some new vampires and werwolves who are looking for their own slice of the pie. Anna Foerster (Criminal Minds, Outlander) is directing UNDERWORLD 5, and has made a name for herself serving as cinematographer Roland Emmerich flicks (INDEPENDENCE DAY, THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW).

Also on the Prague docket is Niki Caro's (MCFARLAND, USA, WHALE RIDER) next flick, THE ZOOKEEPER'S WIFE. Adapted from the nonfiction book of the same name, the story follows the diaries of Antonina Zabinksi, who will be portrayed by Jessica Chastain. Taking place in Poland in the 1930s, Antonina Żabiński (portrayed by Ms. Chastain) and her husband, Dr. Jan Żabiński, serve as stewards to the the Warsaw Zoo. When their country is invaded by the Nazis, Jan and Antonina are forced to report to the Reich’s newly appointed chief zoologist, Lutz Heck (Daniel Bruhl). The Żabińskis covertly begin working with the Resistance – and put into action plans to save the lives of hundreds from what has become the Warsaw Ghetto, with Antonina putting herself and her children at great risk.

One of these films seems like Oscar bait, and the other seems like eye candy . . . not exactly sure which one yet. Projects like these rarely seem that exciting on paper, but can really grow into their own in production. At least with UNDERWORLD, people know what to expect. As far as ZOOKEEPER'S WIFE goes . . . well, I'll watch Jessica Chastain in anything. Poland represent!

Did anyone actually see this?