Beauty and The Beasts

Rating: 9/10 (27 November 2009)

"New Moon" is the type of film that would appear immune to reviews and close scrutiny; however this adaptation is probably one of the best tributes to its original source, and the sources that might have inspired by Meyer. It holds up pretty well, with the story of the tragic and romantic liaison between the seemingly broody, but otherwise normal Bella, a girl who just won't quit in her quest to be with the love of her life, even if that means breaking a few hearts as she gets there. She is intriguing, intelligent, impulsive, and a bit reckless, the perfect character to appeal to young people. Then there is Edward, the lovesick vampire who doesn't know how to fix the various threats to their relationship.
They do have a few problems, a vengeful and powerful female vampire, the possibility of an all-out war with some impressive werewolves, one of which has a personal score to settle, and then there are those Italian beings, one of which appears to find Bella mystifying enough to keep her alive.
I quite enjoyed the couple of unexpected twists, the way the sequels have been set up, and most of all the emotional shading Weitz has brought to the tale. When the change of directors was announced, I thought the formula had been ruined, but just like the Potters' latest entries, this has been a breath of fresh air.
Much credit should be given to the three leads who bring each character to life, showing nuances missing from the characters' development in the story. Stewart broods with enough conviction to make us belief her emotional involvement is quite special, and Pattinson embodies angst and hopelessness like very few actors, and the most welcome surprise is Lautner's tortured and broken-hearted werewolf, a worthy opponent and contender for Bella's heart.
The film is quite good and very enjoyable.