Loved the movie, look forward to a better movie in New Moon

Rating: 10/10 (6 February 2009)

The movie was beautifully cast with very talented actors who worked with what they had. The screenplay left much to be desired. Rob Pattinson and Kristen Stewart - in fact every cast member was incredible - was the strongest part of the movie. The chemistry between Rob & Kristen is unbelievable - and as one reviewer said - he'd be surprised if they didn't get together some day (me too!!). There is no-one else who could play these characters. That being said, Catherine directed this as a teen movie - she had an excellent feel for the high school atmosphere, and Rob and Kristen played some scenes to the hilt - some scenes were so staccato - it definitely left you wanting for more. When Edward jumps on her pick-up, when he brings her to school, when she sees his room for the first time (some of the best scenes in the movie)it's as if Catherine Hardwicke couldn't move on fast enough to the next scene. You want to savor their relationship - enjoy the build-up - her dreaming and talking about him, him being affected by that and you never can. In the book,Bella talks in her sleep all the time and that is a turning point for Edward falling in love with her - for his hope of loving her and they totally dropped it, you rarely see him in her room, in the book it's the backbone of their relationship. They wasted too much time on James (out of town attacks) and having people run up the hill. The baseball scene was well done, as well as Bella and Edward in the treetops.
I know with a bigger budget and some intelligent translation between Stephenies brilliant books and the screenplay - as to what is really important here Edward and Bella and their undeniable connection, you'll satisfy the mature fan base (which I am convinced is the major fan base). These are not just for teens, these books are as mature as any love story out there. Edward and Bella would die for each other and though all of the devotee's out there understand this, the connection was not built up well in the movie at all. Rob & Kristen conveyed that with sheer talent and chemistry - this movie could have been at least 20-30 minutes longer and they could have given this romance it's proper build-up. A Love anyone would give their life for - and that is why people are so crazy for it. I don't know why Catherine Hardwicke was so ashamed of that angle - it's like guys are too, but I've seen plenty of men in the theater - so SOME MEN admit that they might actually be interested in Love.
Robert and Kristin - Edward and Bella personified, both extremely talented, gifted people - and I can only wait, with extreme anticipation for the three sequels coming up - each better than the last! They are so lucky, these films will be the best films they ever do, roles of a lifetime, their Titanic, their Braveheart, their Romeo and Juliet - it's unfortunate that the great roles happen so early, but what an opportunity and Kristen and Rob have it - in the palm of their hands. These books have sold millions and there is a reason why - Hope -we all want what Edward and Bella have, perfect, indivisible, Love.