The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 [Blu-Ray]

Reviews DVD Feb 10 2012

By Denise FalzonTo be honest, the main plot point in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 is that Bella and Edward finally do it. That they get married beforehand and she's impregnated with a half-vampire/half-human baby afterward are simply minor details. But what else could be expected following such immense build-up for three prior instalments? The famous sex scene portrayed by Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson is rather underwhelming, however, and that's where the movie loses points. But it's not just because it's cut short, but because the actors, lacking the passion required, simply look like they're getting through an uncomfortable scene – not exactly how author Stephenie Meyer wrote it. Yes, the wedding is fabulous, featuring one of the most magical and beautiful set designs possible, and the couple's honeymoon destination on the remote Isle Esme, near Rio de Janeiro, is as breathtaking, but it's just overcompensation for bad acting. Some of the best performances of Breaking Dawn are actually delivered by a few of the minor characters, particularly Billy Burke, playing Bella's dad Charlie, who struggles with giving up his young daughter, as well as Anna Kendrick, as Bella's jealous high school friend Jessica, who makes a not-so-congratulatory, but hilarious wedding speech. The latter part of the film revolves around everyone's struggle/confusion/worry over Bella's pregnancy. Drama ensues when Jacob (Taylor Lautner) finds out about the demon foetus that's rapidly growing inside Bella, threatening her life. A choice must be made and not everyone agrees with Bella's maternal instinct-influenced decision. Meanwhile, Jacob asserts his role as the rightful alpha of the Quileute werewolf tribe and vampire masters the Volturi are still keeping tabs on the Cullen clan. Although the storyline isn't as strong as the series' previous instalment, Eclipse, director Bill Condon manages to make the best out of what he's given, maintaining Meyer's vision with all the necessary plot points and minor details that fanpires demand. And while the sex scene was edited in order to receive a PG-13 rating, the birth scene is surprisingly graphic, which somewhat redeems Breaking Dawn. Special features include audio commentary with Condon, as well as a six-part making-of documentary. But it's Bella and Edward's "personal wedding video" that's worth watching, adding a nice touch.
(eOne)

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