With the sexual awakening of another batch of pre-pubescent girls just around the corner (or, as some call it, 'New Moon') Twilight is firmly unavoidable, handsome vampires embedded into our culture as much as binge-drinking and First Class Stamps. It would be extremely easy to write Twilight off without ever having actually viewed it, based upon the criticisms it received upon release by every publication that didn't aspire to be Heat Magazine. The sight of those 14-year old lips quivering just as they did when High School Musical first reared its incredibly beautiful head was enough to put anyone off, especially those of us who didn't claim ownership of a vagina.

So, the good news and the bad news. The good news is that after sitting through 120 minutes of ripped abs and Robert Pattinson's hair, I have managed to maintain my heterosexuality. The bads news is that not only did I sit through the whole 120 minutes of ripped abs and Robert Pattinson's hair whilst maintaining my sexuality, I also actually enjoyed it.

Although Twilight never excels into greatness and remains a distinctly mediocre piece of film-making, the fact that it even managed to slightly exceed my expectations is commendable. Granted, the plot was wafer-thin and the central lovestory was devoid of charm, but as a forgettable piece of popcorn-fodder it was entertaining.

As the two leads, Kristen Stewart and Pattinson do a good job squeezing likeability out of two characters that are relatively unlikeable. However, Pattinson falters somewhat in portraying the mystique and magic that would be expected of a vampire, and his haunted 'look' is easy to mistake for a menacing scowl. This makes the chemistry between Bella and Edward seem a little awkward and forced. Twilight is definitely at its most entertaining when it finds itself combining reality with fiction. Bella's introduction to the Cullen's at the hands of a typical American high-schooler is a highlight, along with the field trip with a vampire. The cinematography is also good, perfectly capturing the gloomy aesthetic of the village.

As you know, Twilight is now officially a global phenomenon. Whilst it lacks the credentials to truly be a cinematic success, its cult fanbase will ensure that it continues penetrating the pop-culture consciousness. Even though it will always have its detractors, it is admittedly refreshing to see an original entry into the overcrowded chick-flick genre.

Rating:



5 Twilight fangirls.

Originally Posted by WolfAtTheDoor Twilight... yes, really.

Originally Posted by butthead aka 216 i havent i refuse to in fact. it triggers my ptsd from yrs ago when i thought my ex's anal beads were those edible candy necklaces

Originally Posted by Dr. Rez Keep it in your pants scottie.

The theory of time travel is as intriguing as it is ambitious, instantly conjuring up fantastical images of hovercars and spacesuits. The concept of our planet's unknown future and its incredible past meeting with the present is one that is sure to capture imaginations, so it is somewhat surprising that a film entitled 'Back To The Future' would refuse to stray from one particular era. It would have been incredibly easy to throw protagonist Marty McFly into various time periods of historical relevance and then let the adventure run its natural course, but by grounding itself in 1955 amidst Marty's parents' blossoming relationship, Back To The Future makes the concept even more interesting and not only did it keep me thoroughly entertained throughout its duration, but it also had me longing for a Delorean of my own.

The introduction of Marty McFly reeks of 80's cheese, but somehow manages to retain an element of cool even after watching him skateboard to school soundtracked by 'The Power Of Love'. He is reminescent of Ferris Bueller, a character that is tame by todays standards (skipping school? I mean, c'mon!) but still has that likeability factor that allows you to accept the fact that he might not be as Han Solo as he thinks he is. Christopher Lloyd is also superb as Doc Brown, exuding charm and wackiness but also retaining emotion - notably in his and Marty's knowing confrontation before he sets off in exploration of the future.

However, it is not without its faults. Even though any 'family film' requires imagination from its audience in order for it to work, sometimes Back To The Future pushes the boundaries too far and delves into farcical territory. This is most apparent at the High School dance scene, in which Marty plays a rendition of 'Johnny B.Goode' and the lead singer of the band he performs with just so happens to be the cousin of Chuck Berry. This sort of unnecessary knowing wink to the audience happens regularly, and adds nothing to the overall experience. Another gripe would be the character of Biff, who offers nothing as an antagonist other than disliking Marty's father, George McFly. His motives are non-existant and his main contribution to the proceedings is a scene involving him attempting to rape Marty's mother... with this knowledge it is somewhat disturbing that in the future George McFly would hire him to wax his car.

Fortunately none of this detracts from the movie too much, and Back To The Future still remains a heartwarming and lighthearted watch. It is unlikely that I will revisit it, but as a movie-going experience it was an enjoyable blast from the past that left me with that warm feeling of nostalgia. I give it;



7 deloreans.