
THE TWILIGHT SAGA: NEW MOON (REVIEW)
The
Twilight saga continues. 'New Moon', the latest edition of the remarkably popular
young adult novel series, is now possibly the most anticipated film sequel of
this decade behind only 'Harry Potter' and 'Star Wars'.
Stephanie
Meyer, author of the books, has created a love story which is as suited to the
silver screen as it is the written page. A new director has taken the helm, Chris
Weitz. Responsible for the horrible adaptation of 'The Golden Compass', he has
certainly redeemed credibility here.
The luminary Kristen Stewart
is back as Bella Swan. Fortunately, she has recovered after her life was almost
claimed after a sudden vampire attack. A birthday party held in her honour goes
awry when a little accident causes blood to shed. This moment turns some of the
undead guests from celebration to salivation. Her one true love, Edward Cullen,
reluctantly leaves town in order to protect human Bella from any more bloodsucking
urges which may randomly occur. Bella is so in love with Edward that she almost
shuts out the rest of the world while he's away. Her range of emotions are far
more diverse than before. Visions of him constantly appear and risk taking is
an objective that could eventually decide her fate.
Solace
arrives in native American Jacob - also a werewolf and old friend of Bella who
she trusts her life with. He has secrets too and is unable to directly explain
the certain changes which are occurring around their little home town of Forks.
Everlasting love involves innumerable big decisions and Bella grows up fast and
goes after what she really wants.
For reasons I won't give
away here, just in case someone hasn't read the book (Anyone?), a pedigree of
Italian vampire royalty is established in the story. Are they friend or foe? With
a consequential trip to Europe, worlds are about to collide. These embracing scenes
are well worth the wait towards the end of the 140 minute film.
Dakota
Fanning ('I Am Sam') is introduced in a role important to these proceedings. Most
of the original cast are back including standout Ashley Green as my chosen Cullen,
Alice. Elizabeth Reaser as Esme Cullen (as before), delivers some of the film's
most delicious lines, while Taylor Lautner as Jacob, steals Edward's limelight
this time around.
Written for the female contingent of the
audience in mind, I still liked the movie. The special effects have been ramped
up with a bigger budget and the excellent alternative soundtrack includes diverse
bands such as, 'Muse' and solo artist 'Lykke Li'. Let's face it, the biceps and
torsos on exhibition running around the forests of Forks are sure to cause a few
hearts to beat faster, just not mine. It won't matter to the self proclaimed 'Twi-Hards',
but I hope the next chapter, 'Eclipse' (my pick of the books) is a far superior
film.
Shane A. Bassett