New Moon – Reviewed by Kathi – 2.5 stars

OMG, it’s finally out!

I really don’t think that this film needs any sort of setup since, for some reason, it is the most anticipated one of the year; but, for the six of you who aren’t aware of all that is “Twilight”, here goes…

“New Moon”, based on the second novel from Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series, continues the can they be together/can’t they be together vampire – human struggle of Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) and Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart).  The majority of the film deals with Bella’s struggle to come to grips in a world without Edward and forge a new relationship with Jacob.

With a new director, Chris Weitz, a larger budget, and a few additions, namely Jacob Black’s (Taylor Lautner) pecs, {which, on a side note ladies, if  you blink, you won’t miss because apparently there is some unwritten rule that if you’re a werewolf, the only attire permissible is knee length jean cut-offs even in the rain.  Who knew?}  the end result is very similar to “Twilight”; the movie drags on and then abruptly ends.  There was a bit more substance to this film which made it a somewhat more bearable; but, was definitely lacking a fabulous script and talented actors.  Having not read the books, I can only go on hearsay from reputable sources; but allegedly, they were not literary masterpieces to begin with; rather, more along the lines of “Sweet Valley High”.  Based on that rather significant fact, you can’t create something that wasn’t there to begin with.  Kudos to the team for putting its best foot forward.

Kristen Stewart gives another compellingly one-dimensional performance in her quest to not only “see” Edward and save him from the Volturi, but also to further her relationship with Jacob who turns out to be a werewolf and Edward’s enemy.    What ever will she do?  How can she possibly choose?  Can she not find a regular guy who isn’t a monster?  I mean really, what are the odds?

For non-Twi-hards the movie isn’t worth the hype; however, for those who have pledged their allegiance to all things Meyer, think Robert Pattinson is the greatest thing since sliced bread, and made their pilgrimage to the Pacific Northwest, you won’t be disappointed.  The angst and brooding lust is ever present in Bella’s relationships with Edward and Jacob.  It delivers all that can be expected and a momentous cliff-hanger ending that will be answered in only a few short months.  It is for these people that the film was made and it will satisfy their “Twilight” hunger, if only temporarily.

2.5 stars (3.5 for the Twi-hards). Don’t forget to also check out Jonathan’s review of “New Moon“.

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