Brief thougths on Breaking Dawn – Part 1
Everyone’s talking about it, so here are my brief thoughts on the first instalment of Breaking Dawn, for what they’re worth. (And if you haven’t read the book, you might want to stop reading now.)
What I liked:
– The wedding scene (especially the drunken speeches/singing).
– Bella’s pre-vampire suffering is kept to three seconds.
– Kristen Stewart genuinely laughs.
– The brutality of the birth scene (not so much that I liked it, but that I thought the whole scene was handled well – and we finally got a glimpse that the series could have moments of horror).
What I didn’t like:
– The wolf scenes (budget for special effects should not have been an issue).
– Jasper’s hair – and the fact he’s reverted to looking slightly constipated. Where’s the cool guy from Eclipse?
Worst moment: wolf discussion.
Best moment: Jacob’s reaction to the name Renesmee.
Overall, though, it was faithful to the book, and it was entertaining. 🙂
I’d love to hear what everyone else thought.
PS – very pleased not to see any fully grown teeth in baby Nessie’s mouth – she was a very cute baby and I did not want this image ruined by a set of fangs!
Totally with you on the wolf discussion – especially when it was immediately followed by quite a sensitive piece of dialogue between Jacob and Seth which showed how much better this could have been dealt with.
Yep, loved the reaction to Renesmee’s name – we went to the cinema on the first full day of release so it was pretty packed. I’m guessing that quite a few members of the audience haven’t read the books, as there was out and out laughter at the name and Jake’s reaction. Also loved how Edward backed Bella’s choice (was this the case in the book – I couldn’t recall?) I thought the comic timing of all three characters for this was great.
We all enjoyed the wedding speeches, too.
Was pleased to see that the bruising from the bedroom scene wasn’t brushed over, as I seem to recall much internet chat when the book came out that this encouraged domestic violence.
Finally, I thought the whole imprinting thing was explained and portrayed nicely. I seem to remember being a bit uncomfortable about a teenage guy being obsessed with a small child in the book, but didn’t get that impression at all in the film – it was quite clearly more a case of devotion and protection.
Entertaining – three and half stars – Margaret, David, your thoughts?!!