Twilight

Released: 2008

Reviewed: 12.28.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Kristen Stewart (Bella), Robert Pattinson (Edward Cullen), Billy Burke (Charlie Swan), Ashley Greene (Alice Cullen), Peter Facinelli (Carlisle Cullen), Anna Kendrick (Jessica).

Based on the Stephenie Meyer novel, Bella moves to a small town to live with her father and falls in love with classmate Edward who she realizes is a vampire. As their relationship is growing Bella falls into danger when a rival vampire clan challenges the Cullen family.

This one starts off a bit slow but steadily increases pace until it is flying. This is the best vampire movie I have seen in a long time due to the romanticizing of the vampires rather than portraying them as blood thirsty monsters and using tons of special effects. There is still some great action and thrills including some nicely done CGI. Basically a teen movie, Twilight is a good mix of drama, High School angst, first love energy, sci-fi, and suspense. A very refreshing change from the blood and guts vampire monster movies usually spewed from production studios. I haven’t read the books yet but understand they are better than the movie which explains many of the bad reviews.

Acting was pretty good from everyone however I think they could have cast Stewart better. She just doesn’t show much emotion throughout the movie though she was playing a highly emotional role. Despite her lack of energy, this was still a very good film. Pattison played his part very well but it was Facinelli I thought did exceptionally well and made a wonderfully creepy yet likeable vampire Dad.

Camera work, effects, sound and dialogue were all well done. Sets were great with excellent forest shots and background scenery.

Overall, this was a very good vampire movie even if it did have an After School Special type ending and high teen appeal. I will enjoy seeing this one again in the future. Some violence and sensuality but preens and above will be fine with this one.