The standard definition of an eclipse is when one celestial body overwhelms or blocks another, such as when the moon comes between the sun and the earth. In addition, a second definition is to overshadow or be greater than everything else. In a way, both of these definitions apply to the much-anticipated summer film of the same name, based on Stephenie Meyer’s ubiquitous teen vampire-and-werewolf novel.
In the film, everything eclipses our heroine, Bella. She’s at a crossroads; should she leave behind her life and start a new one as a vampire? Should she leave her family and friends forever? Should she go to college or marry Edward? And, who gets married at 18? Sprinkle in another major decision that leaves audiences divided: should she choose the cold-blooded vampire Edward or the very-hot werewolf Jacob?
Yet, somehow the film manages to present an even bigger problem, one that eclipses all the others: can Bella survive the rage that fuels Victoria, the vengeful vampire who wants her dead? She manages to be clever and avoid all the tells: Alice’s gift of seeing the future is thwarted by Victoria’s well-laid plans.
It’s here that the film shines, for the scenes of love and teenage angst are woven in stark contrast to the thrilling, nail-biting scenes of Victoria slowly, methodically, and coldly moving closer and closer to Bella to extract her revenge.
Almost all teen girls (and those out of their teens as well) have already read the books and know how it all ends. But that shouldn’t prevent you from seeing the film. In my opinion, it’s the treat of the summer, filled with great chemistry and the best proposal scene since Rock Hudson popped the question to Doris Day. All in all, it’s a feast of great visuals: awesome special effects, great action scenes, and character-building flashbacks. All in all, Eclipse doesn’t suffer from “sequel-itis.” It is great summer movie that delivers. You might just say it eclipses the competition!
My rating: A-
Reviewed by Dr. Sandra Eckard