Better than the first, still needs work

Rating: 7/10 (27 November 2009)

***Spoilers***
I didn't have huge hopes for the second of the Twilight saga. I loved the books, but the first movie was horrible. Not as bad as something like "Disaster Movie," but still pretty painful to watch. That being said- and even though I only gave this a 6.5/7 rating- this was a huge improvement from Twilight. This film was not as awkward; I feel it followed the book much better also. The acting still needs work though. Stewart still overacts and Pattinson still underacts. I can't explain it, but that worked for this movie. Because you had to believe Bella was emotionally dying and Edward was trying to leave her to a "normal" life. Better cinematography, better action, and better "direction" makes this the film to beat when the other two come out. The only real reason I gave this rating was for a couple of scenes which should have been tweaked. Michael Sheen's performance as Aro was an interesting twist. At the same time, however, I felt he came off as Johnny Depp in Charlie & the Choc. Factory creepy. When I read of the Volturi in New Moon, I was petrified by their evil. Not stifling laughter whenever they spoke.
I have to give it to Weitz on this film. I cannot believe the same director of "The Golden Compass" helped bring this film to life. It's really ashame someone else is directing Eclipse. I would like to have seen what else Weitz has to offer the Twilight franchise.