Review: Eclipse (2010)

Eclipse (2010) is the third film in the Twilight Saga, a teen paranormal novel series by Stephanie Meyer. It takes place in contemporary Forks, Washington.

Mysterious murders and disappearances haunt the city of Seattle. Edward Cullen and his family suspect that a new vampire is creating a new army of newborns (recently turned vampires who have an uncontrollable thirst for blood). Meanwhile, Bella Swan is preparing for high school graduation. The change is also near -- she agreed to turn into a vampire after she marries Edward a year later. She wishes to see her friend and werewolf, Jacob Black. Fearing for her safety, Edward hesitantly allows her to visit Jacob, knowing that the wolf pack will not harm her. During her visits, she learns the history of the wolf pack's encounter with the "cold ones" (vampires) in the region. Rosalie Cullen also warns her about the costs of becoming a vampire. She she would be eternally frozen in time and desire one thing most of all -- blood.

During a graduation party, Alice Cullen receives a vision that Victoria, a vampire who wants to kill Bella, has returned to Forks. She is responsible for the new army of newborns, who are committing the Seattle murders. The Cullens and werewolf pack join forces to defeat Victoria and her new minions. She has passed around Bella's scent so that they know who to target and kill. As everyone prepares for the important battle, Edward, Bella, and Jacob camp in the mountains. Flood of teen emotions emerge: Jacob expresses his love for Bella. While she wants to marry Edward, she is also in love with Jacob. At this time, Bella's uncertainty becomes obvious. When Jacob hears the news about the marriage, he runs away to join the rest of the pack. He is heartbroken over Bella's decision to turn into a vampire.

Can Bella love two men at once? Does she want to change into a vampire? Will Victoria finally avenge her lover's death?

Eclipse continues the story of 18-year-old Bella Swan and her vampire love, Edward Cullen. Eclipse is preceded by New Moon and followed by Breaking Dawn. I had the unique opportunity to watch this film almost entirely by myself in the movie theaters. I thought this film was better than New Moon. It had a suspenseful plot that delivered good action in the end. Although this film is made for teen audiences, young adults will enjoy the serious undertones.

The storyline focused mostly on the core love triangle: Bella, Edward, and Jacob. Her high school friends had minor parts in the film and were never seen again. The Cullens and werewolves finally collaborated together once they realized they had a common enemy. I was most impressed with Jasper Hale's acting. He had such minor roles in previous films that he truly shined in this installment. Audiences learned his history (Civil War-era), and his encounters with newborns. It was nice to see him as a hero for a change.

Bella has a lot to ponder. She wants to make everyone else happy, but hasn't really focused on her own feelings until now. She loves two men, but she can only be with one. The question now is who will it be in the next film?

Stay tune for the next film in this popular series, Breaking Dawn. It tentative release date is November 18, 2011. Stay tuned for more updates.

Watch the full trailer below: