A lot has to be said about a movie that even though is based on one of the ‘most popular’ book series in the world, still manages to be unexpected and unpredictable.
Director Bill Condon lures you deeper into Stephanie Meyer’s fantasy world of ethereal immortals who believe it or not, have a heart.
‘Breaking Dawn Part 2’ picks up straight from where the last prequel left off: with Bella (Kristen Stewart) transforming into a Vampire.
Stewart – from a gawky teenager madly in love with ‘the cold one’ in the first 3 installments of ‘Twilight’; To a drained, debilitated young girl impregnated by a vampire in the 4th; And finally to a mature, drop-dead gorgeous immortal in the final installment – really takes your breath away
But even though it is the charm of the real life and reel life couple that has been drawing in the fans over the years, the story really centers around Renesmee – Edward (Robert Pattinson) and Bella’s miracle half-human, half vampire child.
Without giving out any of the ‘shocking’ moments from the movie, the story is about the Volturi clan, who’s always been waiting for a reason to destroy the Cullen family, hearing about Renesmee and assuming that Vampire Law has been broken.
The self crowned Italian leaders plan to arrive at Forks complete with an army to annihilate the Cullens. Meanwhile, the Cullens, with Alice’s (Ashley Greene) ability to see into the future, prepare their own strategy to safeguard the family.
Fantasy lovers are treated to a platter-full of Vampires from different parts of the world, who come in to support the Cullens. All of these immortals have their own special abilities which are displayed fantastically through skillful use of visual effects.
‘Breaking Dawn Part 2’ maintains the subdued colour palette seen in the previous movies from the ‘Twilight Saga’ and the use of the piano in the musical score enhances the magical feel of the story.
The most gripping part is the amazing action sequences towards the end. Some of the unexpected turns and twists genuinely make you gasp in shock, only to have you clap in elation in the next frame.
Well timed lighter moments and sublime acting from almost every member of the cast ensured that the audience was not bored even for a minute.
Kristen Stewart takes a deep, juicy bite into her new immortal avatar, really making you believe she was born to be a Vampire. Pattinson is as charming as he was from the first installment. Special mention has to be made of Michael Sheen who plays the role of Aro leading the Volturi. His laughter, his evil machinations, and his fears are all very convincing. The digital work on each of the actors is first-rate, especially Renesmee who looks angelic.
The flaw? For anyone who has not seen any of the previous movies from the series, it will be difficult to catch on to the story. ‘Breaking Dawn Part 2’ is truly meant for die-hard ‘Twilight’ fans.
If after reading Stephanie’s Meyer’s books you wished vampires and werewolves really existed, then you’ll never want ‘Breaking Dawn Part 2’ to end. The film compellingly envelops you in its magic, love and the promise of ‘forever’.
Rating: ****
