Figuring out "New Moon" for men over 35.

Rating: 5/10 (21 November 2009)

First of all, I gave it a 5 out of 10 somewhat out of respect. Any movie that creates this buzz deserves some sort of respect, simply because, it is history. And it is much better than Transformers 2 or GI Joe.
However, in the end, a good movie is a good movie. A bad movie is a bad movie. This seems to succeed as neither.
The first movie had its charm. But at times it was painfully under produced, directed, etc.,. This sequel unfortunately keeps a similar mood.
At issue is Kristen Swan. She was decent in the first film, but she is in almost every scene in this movie, with the same expression. It's tiring. Perhaps I should be easier on her. Very few actresses can hold a movie at age 19. Except Keira Knightely, Scarlett Johansen, Ellen Page......see my point? Poor casting.
This continues with Robert Pattinson, who looks like James Dean, and seems to emulate Hayden Christenson in Episode 2 and 3. See the big problem?
Fortunately, there is Jakob, played by Taylor Lautner. He keeps a strong character (and strong physique) in his scenes. He is believable as a teenager in love.
The direction has no inspiration, the scoring is relies too much on pop songs, and the script is rather poor at times. As someone who loves movies, I am upset to see film studios rake in movie bucks for a lackluster product. This is the second time this year, with the embarrassment of Transformers.
But this is an event. The teen girls love this. Note: Bella's source of self-esteem seems to be dating vampires and werewolves.