3 of 13

Write now Article Tools

Without a doubt, the single most important movie of 2008 was Twilight. Throngs of eager fans were awaiting the movie's release for months, well in advance of its actual release date of November 21, 2008. The movie's soundtrack even debuted at #1 on bestseller lists prior to the movie's release. Why all of the excitement? Why vampires, of course! Add a few more enticing ingredients, such as love, danger, temptation, timelessness, and teenage angst, and you've got a winner.

What enticed the hordes of fans to want to see the movie? First and foremost, the book of the same name, part of the popular series by author Stephenie Meyer, caught the world's attention. The movie was also well-publicized, with an attractive website and tantalizing movie trailer to add to the excitement.

While some have considered Twilight to be just another overrated teen movie, it has gained widespread popularity with viewers young and old, and its message speaks to the heart without placing limits on age. Truly, Twilight is a love story first, and a story about vampires, second. Vampire fiction has been popular for a few years now and the idea vampires themselves have fascinated the world's imagination for ages. Something about the main family of vampires in Twilight, however, challenges the way you think about the fictional feasters of blood.

The main characters, awkward human teenager Bella Swan (portrayed by actress Kristen Stewart) and irresistibly intense vampire Edward Cullen (portrayed by actor Robert Pattinson), will draw you in as their relationship unfolds. The Cullen family of vampires are like no other vampires you've ever watched or read about. They constantly strive to resist their primal urges, and their will to be civilized eclipses their hunger for the human hunt. While Edward is drawn in by Bella's scent initially, the love that grows between them is powerful enough to overcome all else.

The movie is dramatic and suspenseful, and these elements strike a fine balance with the romance that blossoms between Bella and Edward. Like a moth to a flame, the two are drawn to one another. Their love is intense enough to overcome obstacles and, as their relationship develops, both undoubtedly show in more ways than one that they would give up their existence for one another. When Bella is placed in danger time and time again, Edward lets nothing stand in his way when it comes to saving her. Perhaps he presents the biggest threat to her mortality, but again love conquers all.

For all of those hopeless romantics, Twilight reassures the heart and soul that love knows no boundaries, and that good can always get the upper hand on evil, even if with a fight. Such powerful themes reverberate throughout the movie, minus the sappy factor that too often accompanies love stories on screen.

To gain the full experience from Twilight, reading the book prior to watching the movie would be best. The movie, while not quite as amazing as the book itself was, won't disappoint. Twilight is a story will leave you thirsting for more. Drink it in, if you haven't already. Then, you'll be ready to tackle New Moon, the next part of the story.

Learn more about this author, Vanessa Cumber.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Best of 2008: Movie (Drama)?
We want to hear your view. Write now!