Article by Alexandra Gambardella
“Harry Potter” did it for wizards, “Lord of the Rings” won big for hobbits, and “Narnia” brought it home for the talking woodland creatures. But can a soon-to-shoot movie similarly turn the creaky film cliché of vampires into the next multimillion-dollar fantasy flick franchise?
“The movie is called ‘Twilight,’” 17-year-old “Into the Wild” actress Kristen Stewart beamed when we recently spoke to her. “['Lords of Dogtown' filmmaker] Catherine Hardwicke is directing it in Washington. It’s based on a book that’s pretty popular [among] young adult, high school kids.”
Although Stewart and co-star Robert Pattinson (Cedric Diggory!) will soon film only the first movie, they’re already talking about turning the vampire storyline into a series that really sucks. And since the latest book sold over 150,000 copies in its first day alone, Bella and Edward fans everywhere are already counting down the months until the film’s release.
“People really love these books,” said Stewart. “Right now it’s a trilogy, and a fourth book is coming out, so hopefully we’ll get to shoot all four.”
For those who haven’t yet been bitten, “Twilight” will feature Stewart as Bella Swan, a teenage girl whose life gets turned upside-down after she meets and falls in love with a vampire. Additional names will be cast in the next few weeks, but according to the actress, 21-year-old Pattinson is already sinking his teeth into the role of Edward.
“He’s so good and he’s so soulful and he’s just not a liar — you can feel pain from him,” Stewart cooed. “The cool thing about the story is that it’s a seemingly wonderful fantasy — let’s fall in love with vampires and live forever — but it’s so much harder than that. Imagine living forever. Living one life is hard enough.”
But don’t get fooled into thinking this is going to be “The Notebook” for the undead. “The main character is like, superhuman,” Stewart said of the action scenes in the script. “He’s a vampire, but with really [heightened powers]; he can run faster than a car can drive, and he’s super strong. He throws me over his back [in one scene], right before he’s going to tell me that he’s a vampire, and then he runs over the treetops. And we’re going to be in real treetops; we’re not just going to CGI it. We actually get to go up there, and that’s what I’m stoked on.”
“It’s a pretty triumphant love story,” Stewart concluded, looking forward to stepping in front of the cameras. “It’s gonna take a while, and it [deserves to be] at least a series of three.”
UPDATE (2.28.08): ‘Twilight’ Co-Star Rachelle Lefevre Talks Treetop Controversy!
February 4th, 2008 at 9:04 pm
yeah im not a real fan on the running on top of the trees but the movie shall be intense and satisfying. i think the directors and actors will do well on it even though they will change it a bit, but seriously, what director hasnt to any novel written? exactly… NEVER! im pretty stoke. the movie will be one of my favourite, i mean ive read all four books in two days. im that obsessed
February 4th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Tree tops? When do they run over tree tops?
February 4th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
I really hope they keep the Port Angeles scene when Edward saves her from pretty much getting raped. Also I will be so angry and be ready to throw pitch forks if they don’t have that scene in the meadow.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
First of all… some of you are reading this wrong… they didnt say Robert will only be in the first film they are saying something like “even though for now they are only filming the first installment, they are already thinking about the rest of the series…”
I think the treetops thing is a little rediculous… it’ll kinda loose the feeling to me… but it could be a technical thing… it might be easier to film it without so many tree hazards… but we shall see..
i am so excited to see Kristen in this role, and i cant wait to see how Robery does in the role of Edward i have confidence in him (coming from an actor myself– he can totally pull it off) espeically when i heard he read the books and loved the story! he can do it! stop saying he cant!
February 4th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
I grin… just because I want the movie to be different from the series. I don’t want the movie to completely ruin the idea I have in my head. Running on treetops… now… that’s an amazing idea…. who thought of that? *looks around the room then pats the person who raised their on the back*
Hooray for small little spoilers that keeps the fans on their toes about how the movie is going to be different.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
ugh!! i cant believe it!! treetops? r u serious?
February 4th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
I’m really excited for the release of the film!!! I’m uber excited that Kristen Stewart is ready to make New Moon and Eclipse into movies (which I absolutely cannot wait for!). But I just hope that too much doesn’t get cut or changed from the book to the movie, but as all books that get turned into movies go, you have to go in with low expectations so that whatever you see is better than what you expected!
February 4th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
UGH! treetops are you kidding me!? he never runs over treetops! this is worse than i expected!
February 4th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
ya. no kidding. wait did it really say that hes only in one movie?? ididnt see that? i hte it when they switch actors? and what is this about the script?? ah. im all nervous. but i love kristin as bella. shes just so average in a gorgeous way.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:28 pm
I Cannot Wait For This Movie!
Its Going To Be Amazing.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
I’m glad she’s excited….it certainly means she likes the script and the direction it goes. Hopefully this won’t turn into another Queen of The Damned where you can’t tell who the characters cause they don’t ‘fit’ the part (I realize the person needs to be able to act the part-when if the looks are so far off it makes it hard on the fans of the books to see the true ability of the actors). Kristen & Robert are close enough for the parts (no one is a perfect fit-as Stephenie herself has said many times), it’s the characters we don’t know about yet…..we’ll have to wait and see. Just keep your fingers crossed that they stay close to the book-not leaving out any major points (meadow, shiny Volvo, Bella’s truck….and so many more). If Stephenie has confidence, we all should too.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:34 pm
Oh this just makes me mad! There’s no tree-top scene in there. I know that movies are adaptations of books-usually-but if they’re going to do something completely different from the books and then have people see the movie first and then read the books…. This isn’t going to go well.
I hope that’s a tasteless joke.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Umm tree tops?
We dont remember reading about no treetops.
This isnt crouching tiger hidden dragon.
What are they doing in the trees?
This better be good.
We ♥ Edward.
February 4th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
hmm…treetops… i do not remember that. Hopefully it won’t look cheesy ^^ And I thought that when Bella gets a ride on his back that she ALREADY knows that he’s a vampire… I hope that they stick to the basics. I’m really excited, but I’m also nervous that it won’t be the same as the book. I know that it’s not SUPOSSED to be… but it wouldn’t be the same if they left out all the tiny details…
February 4th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
It sounds like Kristen has read the books. Wouldn’t she know that there is indeed NO tree top scence?
February 4th, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Treetops?
I don’t remember treetops…
And the whole riding on his back thing was after she found out…
Oh well. Movies are allowed to change it a bit. I just can’t wait for it to finally come out.
We
February 4th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
dont %@$%? this up even though i already know you are and treetops? what? -_-
February 4th, 2008 at 10:06 pm
OMG. I cannot wait for the movie to come out… i really really hope they dont change too much stuff from the book to make the movie im already kinda spooked/anxious now that i know that how Edward tells Bella hes a vampire–and that did so not happen that way in the book. ‘Twilight’ was awsome-fav book ever. there better not be any fangs for the vamps but if they do…well i bet the movie is going to be awsome anyway. We can only hope and wait with bated breath until december.*Bites her nails in anxiety*
February 4th, 2008 at 10:14 pm
There is forest-running, but definitely not treetop-running in the book.
And why would Edward run OVER the treetops to begin with? I mean, he goes all SPARKLY in the sunlight and it’s not part of his character to be so ostentatious. That is why he always goes UNDER the trees and therefore in the shade.
February 4th, 2008 at 10:15 pm
Does any one else remember anything about the scene Kristen mentioned? Unless the whole Port Angeles thing was cut out and that’s where they are going to make up for it. I hope not…I liked that part. Then again, there wouldn’t be any way to fit all 498 pages (I think) into a two hour movie. Some of it has to be left out.
But, hey, if Stephenie is happy with it so far, I think the movie is going to be fine. She said the script fits closely with the book, and they are doing a good job taking care of her “baby”.
February 4th, 2008 at 10:19 pm
Oh get over your selves people. I mean come on, not everthing has to be perfect. I mean most people said that Robert wasn’t going to be good for the prat, but just look at Kristen response, “He’s so good and he’s so soulful and “he’s just not a liar — you can feel pain from him,” Stewart cooed. “The cool thing about the story is that it’s a seemingly wonderful fantasy — let’s fall in love with vampires and live forever-” So of all people we should know that their not going to copy every little detail of the book. If you think so then your crazy, so get over it. The movie well be great because they know not to upset many many many loving fans. Also because they’vepicked the perfect Bella and Edward:)
February 4th, 2008 at 10:37 pm
There’s trees in the scene in the meadow…when he gets angry and throws a whole tree branch and stuff. She could be talking about that you know -shrugs-
February 4th, 2008 at 10:42 pm
I’m a huge Twilight obsessed fan, and this only just got me more excited. If you want exactly whats in the book, read the book. I think it sounds cool, up in the trees…Imagine Edward taking you up above the trees…ahh.
Besides, the people that deserve all the best scenes and the true Edward and Bella are the ones that have read the book. I wouldn’t want people who see the movie to think they know everything about Twilight. You HAVE to read the books to get the whole, acurate story. Only we true fans get the best details!
February 4th, 2008 at 10:43 pm
treetops…theyre having Edward run on freakin treetops wtf. It’s not Tarzan, its Twighlight.
February 4th, 2008 at 10:47 pm
hmmm…
im only like the 4732847328th person to comment on tree tops…
but really??
i mean, come on!!
TREE TOPS SUCK.
hah
February 4th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
I think a treetop scene will look cool, but I liked the Port Angeles part!! *sobs* ah, well. As long as it sticks at least mostly to the major plot points…does this mean they’re going to cut the kiss?
February 4th, 2008 at 10:49 pm
Honestly, maybe the part with the treetops is the part where he goes to visit bella at night(i’m totally guessing)? But I am a tad bit…fearful so to put it aobut the treetops because it doesn’t really mention it in the book and Edward is not a show offy person, I doubt he’d do that… I really hope this movie doesn’t ruin my imagination “movie” of the book when I read it. But nothing is perfect as someone mentioned before, and knowing me and quite a few of my friends, most of the time books are better than movies as everyone has a different point of view and all. But best of luck to the movie. Hopefully it’ll blow our minds out xD
February 4th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
I think the whole running up the tree tops thing is probably just being put in th movie to drive home edwards super strength.?
anyway THIS IS SOO COOL the movie seems like it’s going to be awesome already. i can’t wait!
February 4th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
WOW! I am just so excited! Kristen Stewart really seems into the role and I am excited to see her in full fledged Bella-ness
Even though the treetops is clearly adaptation I think its perfect. Edward is constantly trying to prove to Bella how dangerous he is. for him to be able to run that fast, with that much balance, while carrying her!!! well… I’d be shakin’ in MY boots 
Also they could be talking of the scene when they are running from James, they booked it pretty hard there! remember we are reading this out of context! this could be ANYWHERE. Whats with all of these people thinking this is going to replace Port Angeles? Port Angeles is crucial, I highly doubt they will cut that out. not only is it Edward saves the day/Bella is fragile character building, it’s character building for Angela and Jessica too. Though they are fairly insignificant, they are crucial to new moon if they decide to pursue the sequel. I think they will do a good job. Summit Films did Bridge To Teribithia and they did that practically word for word. These guys are the only ones I trust in the book turned movie department. Have faith folks!
and good luck to Robert Pattisson! glad to have you as our heartthrob! I just hope they do as good casting on the malevolent fiery beast that is my Jacob ^-^ *fangirl squee*
February 5th, 2008 at 12:22 am
she looks so much like bella in that picture
i’m ok with the tree tops. it’s basically the same thing with the difference of height. it’s not a book it’s hollywood.
i’m loving what she’s saying about how rob’s coming into the character, i have a great amount of confidence in his portrayal of Edward.
February 5th, 2008 at 12:37 am
Okay, so i know that I’m not the only one commenting on treetops, but it’s a major concern. Movies tend to change book’s meanings around when they mess with scenes and plots, kind of like with the Eragon movie (great book…terrible movie). I know it’s hard to fit an entire >500 pages into an two hour movie (or less), but the treetops might be overdoing it…just a little. Plus I really liked te Port Angeles part-its kind of fuuny to read that she was going to try to take out like six guy…using a purse. Girl power, much. *imagine fist pumping into the air, followed by that ‘oh, it wasn’t going to turn out well in the end, was it?’ hesitation*
February 5th, 2008 at 12:44 am
Yeah, the treetop thing sort of concerns me.
I mean, otherwise, I think this movie is actually going to turn out okay. I absolutely love the actress and I think she’ll do a great job as Bella, looks and espcially acting. She’s done a variety of stuff.
As for Edward… I’m not too crazy about Robert but I do think he’s better than what could’ve been.
(Except I was really dissapointed when I found out Hayden Christensen is too old. -big sadface- He IS Edward. Well, Henry Cavill IS Edward more. Anyways)
I just hope the plot isn’t too mangled; I don’t want a redo of the Harry Potter #5 movie (I sat next to my mother, whispering her what they did wrong in EVERY scene)
February 5th, 2008 at 1:35 am
She doesn’t sound intreseted AT ALL.
this is devastating.
February 5th, 2008 at 1:48 am
I am an avid twilight fan, and I wasn’t too thrilled about Kim starring as Bella, only because I have seen her in some of her other movies. While they are good, she doesn’t make me believe she is the character. Which is a heart breaker; If she can pull this character off I will be impressed. She sounds excited. But I am hopping that the tree top scene is something completely different then the Port Angeles scene. Its a major part of the plot, and for it to be removed…well, lets just say it probably won’t be as popular, since most enjoy that part of the book more then any other scene.
Now for the matter of Robert. I really don’t see why everyone is putting the guy down. He did an amazing job as Cedric, and I think if he puts his heart into the part, and he shaves, he can pull the part of Edward. Of course everyone is going to have their opinion, and I myself wished for different people, but I was excited for when Robert got casted. THEY ARE CHOSEN FOR A REASON. He probably has a secret little vampire down in him waiting to spring out.
Alright -rant finished-.
Other then that, I am excited. I cannot wait for the movie to come out.
February 5th, 2008 at 1:55 am
I’m WAY excited about this movie. i love the book. The Twilight series is my favorite series out of all the books i’ve read and let me tell you, ive read ALOt of books.I agree about the way movies always change alot of the book. i hated eragon(the movie) loved the book though, and Harry potter #5…don’t get me started about how mad i was about that movie! I really hope they don’t ruin this book though. I’m serious, it is really great. anyone who hasn’t read the books yet are really missing out!
February 5th, 2008 at 1:57 am
All I have to say is..get over it! They are the actors chosen. All your bitching won’t change it. How does Kristen NOT sound excited? She sounds extremely excited. Some of you people just want to complain, for the sole purpose of having something to complain about. Get over yourself. And the girls name is KRISTEN, not KIM.
February 5th, 2008 at 2:49 am
Agreed - I wasnt so sure about Kirsten, but I re-watched some of her movies, and now I have a pretty good feeling about her. And besides, even if we make like a LOT of rants up, they’re not gonna change it. Robert Pattison will be okay. I’m not exactly thrilled about him. Honestly, i think that Chase Crawford of the Gossip girl series would be a FABULOUS Edward.
But whatever - Edward Cullen is always going to be better than what they cast for him. He’s flipping perfect :]
x
February 5th, 2008 at 3:13 am
I know that Robert will do an excellent job. He’s an excellent actor, and he’s gorgeous. He looks like a vampire. And I think Kristen is cute as Bella, too. I’m not liking the liberties being taken with the book, however. Like someone said above, when they start changing things in the movie they change the entire feel of the story. I don’t want Edward to be Superman!
I hope, no matter how they change the book that they do any excellent job with this movie so that I can love it on its own merit and be proud of it. I want it to be received well. That’s what freaks me out - that they’ll do a crappy, cheesy movie!!! Let’s not turn Edward into some cheesy, fake superhero.
February 5th, 2008 at 3:37 am
The tree tops is supposed to be Bella’s first visit to Edwards house. You all know, when she tells him that he’s not scary, instead of throwing her on a leather couch, theres a balcony and he throughs her over it. Which goes onto tree tops. The way its wriiten, it’s supposed to be really beautiful.
February 5th, 2008 at 6:08 am
This is going to be a crap movie. They’re changing it drastically and it isn’t right.
February 5th, 2008 at 7:01 am
guys lets be cool on the criticism here besides you haven’t seen the movie yet. let the movie speak for itself. though im glad that they are open to a sequel but then again it still up to how the first movie will turn out.
February 5th, 2008 at 9:08 am
I can’t wait for the movie!! I want it to go as close to the book as possible.
February 5th, 2008 at 9:14 am
i can’t wait til’ the movie, my friends and i have read the book series at least 50 times. i’m proud to say we’re all going to see the movie on the Friday it comes out. YAY!! Robert Pattinson and Stewart are great picks for the parts. Can’t wait to see who plays the others.
February 5th, 2008 at 9:51 am
This movie is going to be epic.
That is all that can be said….
For me, anyways. =P
February 5th, 2008 at 9:57 am
I’m like the only one in the city I live in that have ever heard about the books… but I LOVE THEM!!! I can’t wait ’til the movie come to the cinema. And I’m glad at least one of the actors is looking forward to play in it.
February 5th, 2008 at 10:21 am
omg! i can’t wait for the movie and the book!i hope its not going to be boring or suck…anyways good luck.-.-
February 5th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Tell you the true I don’t like the actor who are playing Bella and Edward. I think the one who should play the part of Bella is Danielle Panabaker and the one who should play Edward is someone more handsom like an Italian or spanish guy because they are more cutter then Robert Pattinson to me he is ugly!!!
February 5th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
They need to stop changing the story because it’s rong and the book was so great that why I love it please stephanie meyer you the person who wrote the book stop this problem and choose better actors.
February 5th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
THIS IS GOING TO BE AWESOME.
But i agree with Katelin….they should stay with the things happening IN the book.
February 5th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
They need to stop changing the story because it’s rong and the book was so great that why I love it please stephanie meyer you the person who wrote the book stop this problem and choose better actors.love you