REVIEW

DIRECTOR: Bill Condon

STARRING: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner

RATING: 5.5/10

Following four years of success, Stephanie MeyersÔÇÖ The Twilight Saga has come to its nostalgic conclusion. In this highly anticipated finale, Condon presents the most enjoyable film of the franchise. After TwilightÔÇÖs establishment of global vampire mania, we finally say goodbye to Bella and Edward forever.

Breaking Dawn Part 2 explores BellaÔÇÖs regenerated world as she adjusts to life as a vampire and a mother to a bizarre looking CGI baby. Before long her euphoria is challenged and her family threatened by the Volturi.

Although the absurd narrative is maintained there is something ultimately compelling. Edward and BellaÔÇÖs intensity has shifted with the introduction of a daughter. A refreshing dimension is added to their relationship, even if Stewart often plays an unconvincing mother. The standard of acting is generally poor, with only Michael Sheen raising his performance beyond MeyersÔÇÖ gawkish storyline.

The visuals remain appealing, from the glorious opening contrast of reds and whites to the gruesome snow-set battle scene. The film features a great soundtrack and Carter Burwell provides a fitting and beautiful score that illuminates themes from the previous films.
Twilight fans will be thrilled by this sentimental yet action-filled end to an era but film buffs are best to avoid the cloying cringe-fest.

Leanne Rachael Dixon