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Twilight MAG
“Twilight”– based on the first book in the best-selling series by Stephenie Meyer – is a faithful adaptation that will satiate the thirst of fans and simultaneously captivate new audiences.
The movie follows the story of Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart), a normal girl thrust into a secret supernatural world when she falls in love with her mysterious classmate, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson). He just happens to be a vampire.
Ditch your preconceived notions of vampires; this isn't a typical vampire tale. If you are looking for clichéd stereotypes with fangs, coffins, and stakes through the heart, this isn't the movie for you. Director Catherine Hardwicke and screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg stay true to Meyer's vision and create a film that exposes “Twilight” for what it essentially is: a story of the ultimate forbidden love.
Hardwicke once again proves her knack for portraying raw teenage experiences, as she did in “Thirteen” and “Lords of Dogtown.” She directs a young cast of phenomenal talent. Leads Stewart and Pattinson throw themselves into their roles and portray their characters exceptionally well. The chemistry between the two is electric.
Stewart gives a fresh, honest take on Bella. Her straightforward interpretation allows viewers to live vicariously through Bella and experience what she does. You feel her longing and desire.
Pattinson conveys Edward's inner turmoil flawlessly. His complex perception of the character creates a believable Edward. He conveys his feelings of vitality and emotional reawakening through his expressions.
The movie also has an outstanding supporting cast. Billy Burke as Bella's father, Ashley Greene as Alice Cullen, and Michael Welch as Mike Newton all deserve a nod for excellent portrayal of their characters.
The film itself is visually dynamic. The movie is shot in crisp blue tones. The costumes are pallid, veering away from traditional vampire attire. Bella's wardrobe becomes closer to the Cullens' as she grows closer to them. The nomad vampires appear savage in clothes taken from their victims.
Filmed in Portland, Oregon, the movie features stunning views and beautiful landscapes. Because of the small budget, action sequences were done physically. Though some may find the special effects lacking, the simplicity enhances Hardwicke's unique documentary-style filming. Using extreme close-ups and whimsical angles, the camera work gives the movie an intimate, realistic feel.
The music ties in to the story perfectly. Consisting of moody, angst-filled rock songs, the soundtrack fits the tone. From Muse's upbeat “Supermassive Black Hole” playing during a game of vampire baseball, to Iron and Wine's romantic “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” at prom, the songs set the mood for the scenes.
A longer film would have allowed more time to explain the essentials of the plot, making it easier for those who have not read the book. Although it mirrors the book very closely, many scenes had to be cut. The danger of the nomadic vampires is threaded throughout the movie to create more tension. The essence of the story is present, making changes in details insignificant; the movie's creators successfully captured the elements that made readers fall in love with Bella and Edward.
The book and the movie are equally satisfying, albeit in different ways, and neither is better. While you can imagine the detailed story unfolding in your head when reading the book, the movie creates a sweet condensed version for the big screen. Both allow you to lose yourself in this passionate, unorthodox romance.
All components work together nicely in “Twilight” to efficiently bring the book to life. The film is a beautiful mixture of romance, action, comedy, and horror, containing aspects that will appeal to everyone.
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This article has 367 comments.
My main problem with Twilight is that Bella just gets on my nerves. A heroin with no soul or character other than a love for an inappropriately old vampire rlly doesn't cut it 4 me. There is nothing wrong with the guy saving the girl sometimes... But Bella practically needs a child leash by the time they have even had their 2nd date. Honestly he legit has 2 save her from EVERYTHING (including his own family... yes I am looking at u Jasper).
But as well as that Edward gaslights her in the second book/ movie and then turns up out of the blue and expects to be able to just boss her abt.. like watttt???? Bella also tries to throw herself off a cliff to see a hullucination of him.... ummm ok whatever works 4 u... I guess.
Edward watches Bella sleep... without her knowledge of him even being in her room in the dead of night..... ummm ye imma just leave that one there.....
Renesmee (is that how you spell it?) and Jacob..... ok I understand y some ppl may be ok with the hundred so age gap between Bella and Edward but.... RENESMEE IS A LITERAL BABY WAT R U DOING STEPHANIE???!!!!???
As well as all the above, the co dependancy and practically victorian style of Edward and Bella is RLLY gross.. it's not sweet 2 keep tabs on someone ur in any kind of relationship.. heck my MUM doesnt even keep tabs on me, so back off Edward!
idk i rlly dont like these, I'm sry if i pooped on this Twilight fan thing in the comments, but like, take away the fact that all the vampires r die hard attractive and c how cute is when 100 and something year old Edward watches 17 year old Bella sleep. Thats all I'm saying.
But, you did have a really good review here. IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!
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By Rylie Panfill