Twilight the Movie
***May 7, 2008***
As many of you have already seen, Summit Entertainment has released a trailer for Twilight the movie. Click here to view the trailer on myspacetv.com.
Also, a movie poster has been released: click here to view it along with an article about the photographer on mtv.com.
***April 21, 2008***
Here is a really interesting article about Twilight the movie, IMDb stats, and everybody reading this (as Stephenie says, "the best fans in the world!"): 'What is Twilight?' on Slashfilm.com.
In my opinion, this is the best video clip yet: Twilight on MTV.com. Enjoy!
***April 16, 2008***
I know everyone is anxious to hear some updates on the movie. I've been too crazy busy to do a lot of blogging about it, and then I've also been afraid of spoiling anything for those who want to be surprised. So I'll just tell you a few short, non-spoiler stories and give you one new picture:
This is me with the humans—who don't get enough love—and director Catherine Hardwicke in the "Forks" high school cafeteria. I got to watch the filming of several key lunch scenes, and see how amazingly well the actors were portraying those human characters. Watching them be Mike and Eric and Jessica and Angela and Tyler made it feel strangely like it all might just be real—which was a crazy feeling. So the humans get two thumbs up from me. And Greg (Tyler) wants us all to know that Bella would definitely choose a guy with an awesome van over some vampire.
Funny story: on April first, I got to watch as they shot Bella's first scene in the hospital (after the above mentioned van careened into her) with Charlie (Billy Burke) and Carlisle (Peter Facinelli). Between takes, Peter came back to the monitors where I was hanging out with Nikki Reed (Rosalie), and producers Greg Mooradian and Gillian Bohrer. Nikki and I were talking about how Kellan Lutz (Emmett) kept eating during the Cullen's cafeteria scenes (Kellan is always hungry) and how the editors would have to cut around that. Greg asked the question many of you have asked: what happens to food eaten by a vampire? (He referenced the infamous bite of pizza Edward takes in the book.) I explained the icky truth—they eventually have to cough it back up. Peter was listening to all of this very quietly, and then he and I had the following conversation (I'm paraphrasing, because I don't have a vampire's perfect recall):
PETER: So vampires would never eat food, unless they are trying to fool humans? They would never eat at home?
ME: No, of course not.
PETER: Huh.
ME: Why do you ask?
PETER: Well...when we were filming one of the scenes in the Cullen house, Esme brought me a bowl of Raisin Bran. I was eating it through the whole scene. I don't think they could cut around it, because I was chewing through some of my lines... I guess that wouldn't make a ton of sense for Carlisle to do, though, would it?
ME: (slightly panicky) Er, no. It really wouldn't.
PETER: Oh, well.
ME:
PETER: And also, April Fool's.
(The part I can't convey here is how convincing he was. Peter is, after all, an excellent actor. He got Kristen/Bella at dinner, too, so I wasn't the only one.)
6 fun facts from the set:
1) While watching the playback from a very intense scene with Bella and Edward, the girl next to me literally slid right out of her chair—I think her bones melted. She also may have stopped breathing for a few seconds, too. I know I did.
2) Mike Welch can dance.
3) Hugging Kellan Lutz is the closest you can get to hugging a vampire; he is made of granite. (But please do not try to hug Kellan without his permission. Thank you.)
4) Portland is too cold. For anyone. But especially for Arizonans.
5) Jackson Rathbone can really play the guitar. Our taste in music is not exactly the same, but we found common ground with Radiohead's Creep, with which he then serenaded me.
6) As you might guess, I do a lot of internal swooning on the set. However, I have an excellent poker face.
To conclude, I would like to make a few comments about Rob and Kristen, who are the true heart of this movie. First, they are both amazing actors. Second, they are channeling Edward and Bella like nobody's business. Third, you might want to bring a paper bag to the movie, because their on-screen chemistry may cause hyperventilation. That is all.
--Stephenie
***April 14, 2008***
Here is a link to the recent MTV News video about Twilight the movie: MTV News on mtv.com.
(I have been informed that there have been problems viewing this video in several countries outside of the United States. I can't fix this problem because it is on a different website. Sorry.)
***April 12, 2008***
We have finally been given permission by Summit to post the full cast list. I have added links to each actor's IMDB.com page — just click on their names. I don't have any more information than what is on the list above. When I am forwarded more news regarding the movie, I will post it as soon as possible. Enjoy!
| Character Name | Actor/Actress |
|---|---|
| Bella | Kristen Stewart |
| Edward | Robert Pattinson |
| Charlie | Billy Burke |
| Alice | Ashley Greene |
| Rosalie | Nikki Reed |
| Jasper | Jackson Rathbone |
| Emmett | Kellan Lutz |
| Carlisle | Peter Facinelli |
| James | Cam Gigandet |
| Jacob Black | Taylor Lautner |
| Jessica | Anna Kendrick |
| Mike Newton | Michael Welch |
| Eric | Justin Chon |
| Angela | Christian Serratos |
| Billy Black | Gil Birmingham |
| Esme | Elizabeth Reaser |
| Laurent | Edi Gathegi |
| Victoria | Rachelle Lafevre |
| Renee | Sarah Clarke |
| Tyler | Gregory Tyree Boyce |
| Waylon Forge | Ned Bellamy |
| Phil | Matt Bushell |
| Mr. Molina | Jose Zuniga |
***April 11, 2008***
This is a great video clip: ETonline.com's Behind the Scenes of 'Twilight'.
***March 13, 2008***
Cam Gigandet as James:
One of the coolest things about being a writer—for me anyway—is that I get access to advanced copies of books I'm excited about. I always feel a little bit like I'm cheating—but I love it.
Imagine my excitement to find out that having my book made into a movie means that I get the same perk for movies! Long story short, Summit was nice enough to let me get a sneak peak at Never Back Down, which hits theaters tomorrow (3-14-08).
One of the funnest things about this very fun film was getting to see Cam Gigandet, who stars as the villian, being all James-y. Most of you know that Cam will be playing James in the Twilight movie, and now I can vouch for the fact that he will be awwwwwwwwesome.
Plus, I just really love a good fight sequence. And eye candy. And the bands TV on the Radio, The Bravery, and My Chemical Romance, who are all part of the viewing experience. Did I mention the eye candy?
--Steph
***February 28, 2008***
Rachelle Lefevre, the actress who will play Victoria in Twilight the movie, recently was interviewed by MTV Movie News. Click here to read the article on mtv.com. Stephenie has asked me to post this link for everyone because she read the article (while on tour in Germany) and loved it.
***February 21, 2008***
My weekend on the set of Twilight the movie
Hey guys, I thought you might enjoy a couple of pictures from my weekend on the set of Twilight the movie. It was an amazing time; I had the chance to visit some of the film sites (Oregon is gorgeous!), go through the story boards (if just scanning through the sketches is so exciting, I can only imagine how much more thrilling the live action will be), watch some brief videos of stunt work (ouch! but so cool), and even catch a little bit of a vampire baseball game (look out—James is a ringer). My favorite part was dinner with some of the cast and crew. You don't know surreal until you sit down at a table with people out of your imagination. It was more than a little bit disturbing how pretty everyone was, and who knew movie stars were so nice? Anyway, if you ever get a chance to visit the set of a movie based on a book you wrote, I definitely recommend that you go for it.
--Stephenie
***February 19, 2008*** (Official Press Release)
Summit Entertainment Welcomes the Cullen Family to Twilight
Peter Facinelli, Elizabeth Reaser, Jackson Rathbone, Nikki Reed, Ashley Greene and Kellan Lutz Join Cast of the Thriller Romance
Los Angeles, CA February 19, 2008 — Summit Entertainment announced today that it has rounded out the cast of the Cullen family in the first installment of its filmed franchise, TWILIGHT. The family of vampires, to which the leading male character Edward Cullen belongs, will be comprised of actors Peter Facinelli as Carlisle, Elizabeth Reaser as Esme, Jackson Rathbone as Jasper, Nikki Reed as Rosalie, Ashley Greene as Alice and Kellan Lutz as Emmett.
"Finding six talented actors who can portray supernaturally beautiful, talented vampires of the sort Stephenie Meyer has created and her fans have come to know and love was not an easy task but we are happy to say we have found our perfect Cullen family," said Erik Feig, Summit's President of Production.
The credits for the actors comprising the Cullen family include popular film and television titles. Peter Facinelli (THE SCORPION KING, RIDING IN CARS WITH BOYS) just completed work on the critically acclaimed first season of Damages. Reaser had roles in the comedy THE FAMILY STONE and has been seen on the hit TV series Grey's Anatomy. Rathbone was seen in PRAY FOR MORNING and also appeared in the TV series The O.C. Reed also played a role on The O.C. and also has been seen in LORDS OF DOGTOWN. Greene has been seen in both Shark and Crossing Jordan. Lutz appeared in ACCEPTED and the HBO series The Comeback.
Facinelli is represented by Paradigm and James/Levy Management. Rathbone and Reed are also represented by Paradigm. Reaser is represented by UTA. Greene and Lutz are represented by Innovative Artists.
***February 13, 2008***
There will be an open casting call this Sunday, February 17 for extras for Twilight the movie. Click here to read a PDF flyer with the details.
***February 5, 2008***
Here is a link to an interview that Kristen Stewart did on MTV's Movies Blog. Enjoy!
***January 25, 2008***
Twilight the movie was recently switched from the "Pre-Production" section to the "In-Production" section on Summit Entertainment's website.
***January 18, 2008*** (Official Press Release)
Casting Call for Jacob Black (press release)
THE SEARCH IS ON FOR NATIVE AMERICAN TEEN TO PLAY KEY ROLE IN MAJOR MOTION PICTURE. ("Twilight" begins shooting in Oregon at the end of February)
PORTLAND, ORE. Lana Veenker Casting announced today that it is seeking a 16-18 year old Native American male to play a significant role in the upcoming Summit Entertainment film "Twilight," directed by Catherine Hardwicke.
The film is based on the publishing phenomenon "Twilight," written by Stephenie Meyer, and is highly anticipated due to its popularity among young adults.
"Director Catherine Hardwicke is keen to find the right teenager for the role of Jacob," says Casting Director Lana Veenker, owner of the Portland, Oregon-based casting company. "Besides being an authentic Native American, he needs to have charm and charisma. At this point, Catherine is more concerned about finding someone with the right looks and personality, than she is about prior acting experience. And he needs to be available for sequels! This will be an amazing opportunity for one lucky teenager."
An open casting call will take place in Portland on Saturday, January 19, 2008, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at Lana Veenker Casting, 2580 NW Upshur Street, Portland, Oregon 97212. Applicants who fit the age and ethnicity requirements for the role will have their photos taken and may be asked to read lines in front of the director.
Applicants who are unable to attend Saturdays open call should email their contact information and a photo to talent@slateplease.com. More information is available on the casting company website at slateplease.com or on its MySpace page at myspace.com/ lanaveenkercasting.
***December 11, 2007*** (Official Press Release)
Actor Robert Pattinson joins cast of Twilight for Summit Entertainment
Los Angeles, CA December 11, 2007 — Summit Entertainment announced today that Robert Pattinson will star as Edward in the highly anticipated feature film production TWILIGHT opposite Kristen Stewart. The thriller-romance, based on Stephenie Meyer's publishing phenomenon, is slated to begin production in February 2008 with Catherine Hardwicke directing a script by Melissa Rosenberg (STEP UP). Karen Rosenfelt (DEVIL WEARS PRADA) and Greg Mooradian will produce along with Mark Morgan via his Maverick Films banner.
Erik Feig, Summit Entertainment's President of Production, stated, "It is always a challenge to find the right actor for a part that has lived so vividly in the imaginations of readers but we took the responsibility seriously and are confident, with Rob Pattinson, that we have found the perfect Edward for our Bella in TWILIGHT."
Robert Pattinson most recently starred in LITTLE ASHES as the young Salvador Dali. Pattinson is best known for his role as Cedric Diggory in the recent box office successes HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX and HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE.
***A note from Stephenie about the casting of Robert Pattinson:
I am ecstatic with Summit's choice for Edward. There are very few actors who can look both dangerous and beautiful at the same time, and even fewer who I can picture in my head as Edward. Robert Pattinson is going to be amazing.
***November 24, 2007***
Summit Entertainment now lists Twilight as being pre-production on their website.
***November 16, 2007*** (Official Press Release)
Kristen Stewart to star in Twilight
Photo by Paul Jasmin
Los Angeles, CA November 16, 2007 — Summit Entertainment announced today that Kristen Stewart will star as Bella Swan in the production of the feature film TWILIGHT, the thriller-romance based on Stephenie Meyer's publishing phenomenon. The film, which begins production February 2008, will be directed by Catherine Hardwicke, with Melissa Rosenberg (STEP UP) having adapted the script. Karen Rosenfelt (DEVIL WEARS PRADA) and Greg Mooradian will produce along with Mark Morgan via his Maverick Films banner.
TWILIGHT tells the story of 17-year-old Bella Swan who moves to the small town of Forks, Washington to live with her father, and becomes drawn to Edward, a pale, mysterious classmate who seems determined to push her away. But neither can deny the attraction that pulls them together... even when Edward confides that he and his family are vampires. Their unorthodox romance puts her in physical danger when Edward's nemesis comes to town and sets his sights on Bella.
Erik Feig, Summit Entertainment's President of Production stated, "We at Summit are truly excited about the franchise potential of this remarkable Romeo and Juliet story. Of course, you are only as good as your Juliet and Kristen Stewart has that magical combination of being a great actress, deeply appealing, and perfect for the part."
Meyer's Twilight is a cultural phenomenon, hitting legions of readers of all ages, that has spawned two sequels including New Moon and Eclipse. Twilight is a #1 New York Times Best Seller and has been lauded by critics. Twilight's recent sequel Eclipse most recently debuted at #1 on the USA Today bestseller list unseating the newest Harry Potter.
Erik Feig along with Summit Entertainment's Senior Vice President of Production, Geoff Shaevitz, and Creative Executive Gillian Bohrer will oversee the project for the studio.
Kristen Stewart was introduced to worldwide audiences with her outstanding performance alongside Jodie Foster in PANIC ROOM. Stewart can now be seen in INTO THE WILD for director Sean Penn. She is currently shooting the female lead role in ADVENTURELAND opposite Ryan Reynolds and Jesse Eisenberg for director Greg Mottola. She will soon be seen in a starring role in the independent film THE CAKE EATERS for director Mary Stuart Masterson, the independent film YELLOW HANDKERCHIEF alongside William Hurt and Maria Bello and a supporting role in WHAT JUST HAPPENED alongside Robert De Niro and Sean Penn for director Barry Levinson.
Stewart's additional film credits include IN THE LAND OF WOMEN, THE MESSENGERS, ZATHURA, SPEAK, FIERCE PEOPLE, CATCH THAT KID, UNDERTOW, COLD CREEK MANOR and THE SAFETY OF OBJECTS.
Stewart is represented by The Gersh Agency and lawyer Joel McKuin at Colden McKuin & Frankel.
Karen Barna, Summit's Director of Business Affairs, negotiated the deal on behalf of the studio.
About Summit Entertainment LLC
Summit Entertainment is a worldwide theatrical motion picture development, financing, production and distribution studio. The studio handles all aspects of marketing and distribution for both its own internally developed motion pictures as well as acquired pictures. Summit Entertainment, LLC also represents international sales for both its own slate and third party product. Summit Entertainment, LLC plans to release 10 to 12 films annually.
***A note from Stephenie about the casting of Kristen Stewart:
I'm very excited to have Kristen Stewart play Bella in the upcoming Twilight movie. She's an amazing actress with experience all across the board—action, horror, comedy, romance, and more. Since Twilight has moments that fit into every one of these genres, I'm thrilled to have a Bella who has practice with them all.
Summit's vision of the Twilight movie continues to dovetail very closely with mine, and I'm comforted to know that my "baby" is in the right hands.
For every actress that has been suggested as Bella in the past few years, there are always a slew of critics that cry, "But she doesn't look like Bella!" (Which can often be translated thusly: "She doesn't look like ME!") To this I would like to say: "Of course she doesn't!" Bella is a fictional character, and she looks different to everyone. As is the same with every actor who will be cast in the next few months, no one is going to match up with your mental picture exactly—or mine. The thing to hope for is a really great actor who can make us believe she is Bella (or Alice or so forth) for roughly two hours. I think we've got that with Kristen Stewart, and I can't wait to see her step into the role!
Stephenie
***September 26, 2007***
Catherine Hardwicke, director of the forth-coming Twilight movie, recently visited the Forks area with her team. Here are links to two articles about the scouting trip:
Forks Forum and Peninsula Daily News
And while we are posting interesting links, both Twilight (the movie) and Stephenie were recently added to IMDb.com (Internet Movie Database). Here are the links:
Twilight and Stephenie Meyer.
While there is still no new information, it is exciting to see them on IMDb and will be more exciting to check updates in the future.
***August 31, 2007***
Things continue to move forward with Summit, and I couldn't be more pleased. They have officially signed director Catherine Hardwicke and writer Melissa Rosenberg. I had a chance to sit down with Catherine and Melissa and many of the other people involved while I was in L.A. It was a fantastic conversation and they asked all the right questions—I even had a chance to mention a few of my favorite actors. I'm so excited to see what comes next, and I promise to keep you all in the loop when new things happen.
To view entries and updates to the movie page from before August 2007, click here to go to the archives.