Twilight Saga: Eclipse

When “Twilight” hit theaters back in 2008, I can’t say I understood what all the fuss was about. In fact, I really didn’t even have the slightest clue as to what “Twilight” was. I’d never read the books by Stephenie Meyer or even heard about them for that matter. Nevertheless, any film that becomes a world-wide blockbuster within weeks usually ignites my interest. Still, I didn’t see the movie until it hit DVD merely because I wouldn’t dare see a chick-flick with a hundred people around me watching and waiting to use my vulnerability as a blackmailing tool somewhere down the road, assuming that anybody in the theater even knew me. Needless to say, as I sat there watching, I couldn’t help but wonder why I hadn’t seen it sooner. Sure it’s a broody, teen-love fest, but it was interesting no less. Of course, by time I’d actually seen the original film, the sequel entitled “Twilight Saga: New Moon” was two weeks away from its theatrical release. As promised, it was packed with far more action than its predecessor, yet it was still pretty heavy on the romance which frightened a majority of male movie-goers away. Now, the third installment in Summit Entertainment’s wildly successful franchise, “Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” has made its big screen debut after months of anticipation and need I say it’s easily the most entertaining of the series.

“Twilight Saga: Eclipse” had one great thing going for it from the very beginning; David Slade was attached to helm the picture. Now, I’m sure most of you have never seen and maybe never heard of “30 Days of Night.” Long story short, it’s one of the most brutally compelling vampire movies I’ve seen to date. With that said, I knew I’d be seeing this sequel long before filming even began. As the movie’s release date grew closer and closer, I confess there were several times I reconsidered due entirely to the fact that Summit Entertainment’s promotional process was merely identical to that of “New Moon’s.” I’m not talking the massive sales of Team Edward and Team Jacob t-shirts or collectible Cullen dolls. I’m referring to the studio leaking far more pieces of the film online than necessary. Simply put, if you were to watch every trailer or clip released for “Eclipse” than you’ve seen most of the better scenes from the movie. Still, die-hard fans of the franchise are most interested in the supernatural love triangle between the franchise’s three primary characters Edward, Bella and Jacob and if that’s the case, you’re going to get your money’s worth.

“Eclipse” is packed with seemingly endless dialogue and though younger viewers with eat it up, much of the chatter between the characters may be far too simple for the more mature members of the audience. In “New Moon,” there was a surprisingly large amount of comic relief which is what kept the parents of the Twi-hards from dozing off. This time around, not so much. Though the fast-paced action almost makes up for the lack of laughter amongst the men’s behalf, mature female viewers are bound to feel left out.

Since I’ve never read any of the books by Stephenie Meyer, I have no idea what was left out of the book or what was added to the movie. I have heard endless discussion regarding the ‘tent’ scene and saying that I was intrigued doesn’t mean everybody else will find the same satisfaction. The awkwardness between the characters was absolutely priceless and I can honestly say the actors did an exceptional job perfecting the scene. Had any effort been left out, the entire moment would have been ruined, fortunately, that wasn’t the case.

Last November, I said in my review for “Twilight Saga: New Moon” that there was a little something in it for everyone. With “Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” that’s not entirely the case. The fans are certain to favor this installment over its predecessors, the men will appreciate the additional action-sequences but anybody outside of these two groups may be disappointed. Then again, maybe not. I consider myself a newcomer to the world of “Twilight.” Aside from the movies, I don’t consider my knowledge of the franchise to be great. I can say, however, that I was completely sucked into the film. The story was engrossing, the visuals were stunning and though the dialogue was simplistic, the actors were convincing. All in all, I enjoyed this film. It’s honestly one of the best movies to come out in this year’s weak summer film season.