Van Helsing is an action-packed supernatural adventure film directed by Stephen Sommers. Set in the late 19th century, it follows the legendary monster hunter Gabriel Van Helsing (Hugh Jackman), who is sent on a mission to Transylvania to destroy Count Dracula (Richard Roxburgh) and end the reign of terror he has unleashed on the region.

Van Helsing, an enigmatic and skilled hunter, works for a secret society known as the Vatican, which dispatches him to confront dark supernatural forces. In this adventure, Van Helsing is joined by Anna Valerious (Kate Beckinsale), the determined daughter of a family cursed by Dracula, whose lineage is bound to be extinguished unless Dracula is killed. Anna’s brother, who was killed by Dracula, is part of the long-standing battle between the Valerious family and the vampire lord.

The duo travels to Transylvania, where they encounter various monstrous creatures, including Dracula’s brides and a group of werewolves. In his quest to destroy Dracula, Van Helsing is forced to confront the creature’s terrifying offspring: Frankenstein’s Monster (Shuler Hensley), who plays a central role in Dracula’s dark plans, and the shape-shifting werewolves, which include Anna’s brother who was turned into one of Dracula’s minions.

Throughout the film, Van Helsing is confronted with the mystery of his own past, as fragments of his forgotten memories resurface, revealing his connection to the very monsters he is hunting. His mission becomes personal, and as he and Anna fight side-by-side to stop Dracula from unleashing an army of vampires and werewolves, they uncover deeper secrets about their intertwined fates.

The final showdown takes place at Dracula’s castle, where Van Helsing must face the terrifying creature once and for all. With help from Frankenstein’s Monster, who ultimately becomes an ally, Van Helsing and Anna battle Dracula and his monstrous army in a visually stunning and action-heavy climax.

Van Helsing combines elements of gothic horror, action, and fantasy with impressive special effects, including epic fight scenes and monster transformations. The film blends iconic characters from classic literature, such as Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, and werewolves, into a new narrative where these creatures are given a modern, action-packed twist. It explores themes of redemption, the consequences of dark science, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Although Van Helsing received mixed reviews, it became a cult favorite for fans of action-horror films and is remembered for its bold visual style and Hugh Jackman’s charismatic portrayal of the monster hunter.