The Movievaures Time Machine: Van Helsing — A Monster Mash That Still Has Some Bite

Welcome back to The Movievaures Time Machine, where I dive into beloved classics (and sometimes not-so-classics) from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s to see if they’ve stood the test of time—or if they’ve turned to cinematic dust.

This week, we’re howling back to the early 2000s with a personal teenage favorite of mine: Van Helsing, starring Hugh Jackman and yes—Kate Beckinsale is back! Vampires, werewolves, monster hunters… you name it, this movie had it all.

Non-Spoiler Summary

Van Helsing is a supernatural action-adventure that follows the legendary monster hunter Gabriel Van Helsing (Hugh Jackman), who’s sent by a secret religious order to Transylvania to stop Count Dracula’s diabolical plans. Along the way, he partners with Anna Valerious (Kate Beckinsale), a fierce warrior determined to save her family from a centuries-old curse.

Together, they face off against Dracula, his brides, Frankenstein’s monster, werewolves, and all kinds of gothic chaos. It’s a fast-paced, high-stakes monster mash with a dash of humor and a whole lot of drama.

A Look at the Movie

Let’s be honest—this was one of my favorite movies as a teenager. I’ve always had a soft spot for anything involving vampires and werewolves, and Van Helsing brought them all together in one epic monster movie. Watching it again through the lens of the Time Machine… things are a little different.

The CGI hasn’t aged all that well. Some of the creature effects and action scenes that once looked jaw-dropping now feel a little rough around the edges. And I also noticed something I never paid attention to back then: the Valerious family storyline lacks depth and synergy. It’s a shame, because there was real potential to give more emotional weight to their fight against Dracula.

That said—Hugh Jackman is undeniably cool in this role. It’s great to see him in something lighter and more fun, especially when you’re used to seeing him as broody Wolverine. And Kate Beckinsale, once again, absolutely shines. She fits perfectly in this gothic world, bringing both elegance and ferocity to Anna’s character.

The film isn’t perfect, but it’s a good time. It knows it’s a bit over-the-top, and that’s part of its charm. There’s something nostalgic and satisfying about watching vampires fight werewolves with dramatic music and spinning crossbows.

Public Reception Then and Now

When Van Helsing first came out, it had a mixed reception. Audiences loved the action and visuals, but critics weren’t as kind, pointing to the chaotic plot and uneven pacing.

Over the years, though, it has carved out its own cult following—especially among fans of classic monster lore and 2000s fantasy action. It’s a film people remember fondly, even if they admit it’s far from perfect.

The Movievaures Time Machine Verdict

Despite its flaws and some aging CGI, Van Helsing still has a place in our future. It’s not a masterpiece, but it doesn’t try to be. It’s a fun, gothic adventure that brings together monsters, action, and some seriously cool characters.

Time Machine verdict: passed. For the fans of monster mayhem and 2000s fantasy, it’s still worth the ride.

Conclusion

Have you revisited Van Helsing recently? Did it spark your love for monster hunting too? Let me know what you think—and don’t forget to follow The Movievaures Time Machine on Instagram for more nostalgic reviews, throwbacks, and cinematic surprises.

Because sometimes, even flawed movies deserve eternal life.