This series gets better every time, but still . . .

Rating: 7/10 (30 June 2010)

I am a fan of the book series. I read the series after being forced into it by my neighbor whom I mistakenly told that I kind of liked the first movie.After reading the books, a soft spot in my heart for these movies formed and I am thus forced to venture out into the darkness in the wee small hours of the morning and fight my way through middle schoolers dressed up as wolves to see the newest installment.
I wasn't aware the movie had even started, in fact, I was still riding the high of seeing the Harry Potter preview on the big screen--I simply thought it was another preview. And then I realized it was Riley. Great opening scene. The movie is slightly rushed in the beginning, understandable due to time constraints. Many of the scenes left me wishing for just a few extra lines--words even. When you jumble scenes you must keep the characters motives consistent. I loved this movie, but as a fan of the book was a bit annoyed by the portrayel of the main character's love triangle. The character's actions didn't quite match or maybe they just weren't conveyed properly due to cut scenes--either way Bella seems even more obnoxious, Jacob isn't as devious, and Edward comes off like a jealous pansy.
That said, this picture is by far the most visually stunning. Thank goodness they fixed the Cullen's hair and make-up---New Moon was unacceptable. Rosalie's wig should have been burned. The background stories of Jaz and Rose are perfect--Jaz is awesome. And then there is Charlie . . . he is just so . . .well . . .you just want to hug Billy Burke. I can't imagine anyone else as Bella's dad. I think the acting is improving as well, there are some moments in this movie that are really quite good.
So, all in all--It was worth listening to the cat calls, the applause at the end of all the good scenes, the heckling of either team and the ridiculous comments from people who haven't read the books. It wasn't perfect, but no book adaptation is. There are a few good zingers in there that'll give your date a chuckle, fan or not. :D