Anyone with eyes and ears will know that Twilight has been the “it” thing for some time now, as the phenomenally popular book series was followed by, if possible, an even more popular film. Not exactly a fan of the series, I finally hopped on the bandwagon and watched the movie yesterday; unfortunately, it somehow surpassed the level of bad I thought it had the potential to reach. As I watched (and snorted, and laughed, and cringed), I was shocked by how quickly Bella develops a devastating obsession with Edward that’s supposed to pass for love. She ignores her friends and family, puts herself in danger, and becomes emotionally unstable after just a few weeks (at most!) of “being with” Edward. Is this what true love is like? And are the disturbed gurgly feelings that that the film gave me any indication that this story isn’t as innocent as it seems?
Many teen girls, and increasingly their mothers, fancy themselves in love with Edward (or the actor that plays him, but what’s the difference?) and romanticize his relationship with Bella. As Robert Pattin (who plays Edward Cullen in the film) remarked during a New York Times interview: “The connection that I am an actor playing this character is sort of skipped. They [fans] are in denial. They think I am Edward Cullen.” The article continues, “Mr. Pattinson, 22, said he had no idea what to make of his situation, about to meet thousands of teenage girls — and many of their mothers — who were flat-out in love with him.” (Read article here.)
So what does this obsession mean for girls who are just learning about themselves, relationships, and love? Have they found a good relationship role model depicted in the Saga, or is something more sinister disguised in Bella and Edward’s affair? And even if the story is depicting a less-than-perfect pair, how far will teens go in emulating their supernatural hero and heroine ? I’m still making up my mind, but I’d love to hear your thoughts.
For more fascinating reading about Twilight, check out this article from Bitch magazine that examines the series through a feminist lens.
