So much better than 'Twilight'

Rating: 8/10 (21 November 2009)

Don't get me wrong ~ I enjoyed the first movie, and it adapted the book well, but this feels like a proper FILM in its own right. Beautifully shot (Bella's depression after Edward's departure contains some particularly lovely camera shots and editing), well acted and paced, it doesn't feel like a concept film, like the first did.
It tells the story well, but not in a way that excludes first time viewers or non readers, and the actors all have a handle on their characters. The supporting cast are well realised - from Jessica Stanley to Emmett Cullen, it all feels a little more detailed. The music is fantastic, and I have to give a shout out to Taylor Lautner who was brilliant. Exactly as I imagined Jacob.
It's not perfect - in my opinion Kristen Stewart has still not made Bella sympathetic enough; but perhaps I'm just nitpicking. All in all - pretty darn fab.