The second installment of the “Twilight” series picks up not far from where the first movie left off. Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) has recovered from the injuries she sustained in the first film and is still madly in love with Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson).The movie opens to Bella having a dream the morning of her eighteenth birthday. Saga is a great word to describe this film, as the viewer is taken on the emotional journey of an eighteen-year-old woman discovering herself, the relationships she has with others, and of course a trip halfway across the planet to Rome.
Along the way, Bella strengthens her friendship with Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner). “New Moon” extensively uses foreshadowing, nearly to the point that the film becomes predictable. The very name itself clues one in to the fact that werewolves will make an appearance in the film. It will quickly become clear what their primary purpose is.
Cinematically, “New Moon” is better than its predecessor was. The exposure of the film is lower, making the world darker and more realistic than the extremely bright film seen in the original “Twilight.” Director Chris Weitz does a remarkable job, using cinematic conventions to bring the viewer into Bella’s world. In one scene, a distraught Bella looks out of a window, experiencing confusion and emotional pain. A camera circles Bella as the weather and seasons change before her, in an attempt to disorient the viewer and convey her feelings.
Given the abilities of the vampires, and the addition of the werewolves, it is remarkable and commendable that Chris Weitz stayed away from an extensive use of special effects. Weitz focused on the story and allowed the actors tell it. Kristen Stewart displays great range, providing the occasional smile and moments of happiness to offset the sulking, confusion and depression that she typically displayed. Robert Pattinson provides another good turn as the charming yet sulking vampire who cares for nothing other than the safety of his lover. Taylor Lautner is growing as an actor and this role showed that. Lautner had moments where he was able to display great range, but others where he simply stared at Kristen Stewart as though he wanted to eat her. As awkward as that may seem, it fit with the film and the awkwardness of the relationship that Bella and Jacob have.
Overall, “New Moon” is a step up from the first “Twilight” film. Newcomers could even skip the first film, as flashbacks will provide all the exposition needed to keep the story coherent. While “New Moon” may feel a bit long winded, it has an entertaining story that you will discuss in the car ride home.