Wal-Mart. Oasis Bowling Lanes. Lazer Tag.

These are about all the High Desert has to offer in the way of passing one’s time. Thankfully, with the addition of Ultrastar Cinema and a new swanky Cinemark movie theater, the element of escapism is no longer coupled with any jail time (and resulting lengthy probation).

It is in this spirit that I write to you my experience with new (and occasionally not so new) movies… some of which you should hastily run out the door and see for yourself, and some you should feel fortunate that you only have to live vicariously through my less than satisfactory experience.

It was a particularly chilled Monday evening. My wife of exactly one year sits across from me, her deep blue eyes glistening under the soft glow of the paper lantern hanging above our table. There is a myriad of delectable sushi and a fantastic pineapple sake waiting to be consumed: a fitting precursor for my first foray into the world of movie review writing.

It should be of note that the task of choosing the first film that would undoubtedly launch my career as a highly regarded writer and critic was quickly and effortlessly burgled from me. Most people of acquaintance will extend the courtesy of asking the opinion of the other as to what the revelries of the evening should be. This was not the case. My evening (and movie review) were decided by a simple declarative statement.

“Paul, we’re going to see the new Twilight movie.” Three years ago, in my socially underdeveloped testosterone fueled indifference, I would have adamantly protested. The night probably would have ended thus: I go and see the newest blood drenched zombie explosion dark comedy, and she would have seen Twilight. We would calmly return to our vehicle, enjoy a cripplingly awkward silence until returning home, to enjoy a restful night’s sleep (her in our warm queen sized bed, and me on our lumpy couch).

Being now a seasoned marital veteran (or at least keen to when I should keep my big mouth shut), I politely nod my head, smile, and say “Honey, that would be lovely.” So off to the Apple Valley Cinemark Theater, where the seats were as warm and inviting as my grandmother’s embrace. Here, at long last, is my take on the newest addition to the Twilight Saga:

Chances are, if you are between the ages of 10 and 75, you’ve seen (if not at least heard of) Twilight. I saw the first Twilight movie, and to a decent extent enjoyed it, because I love the element of fantasy and a good love story. This story continues in New Moon, but not without some interesting changes.

Catherine Hardwicke backed out from directorial duties (supposedly due to scheduling conflicts). Chris Weitz stepped in to helm his first sequel, and the result is a movie with a decidedly different tone. Not only because the story and direction now were being interpreted by a male director, but also in the way the story was told visually. The movie’s visual tone is almost entirely dictated by Bella Swan’s emotional state. This leaves the bulk of the movie existing under an overcast sky and plentiful rain. Don’t misconstrue this as negative criticism, because the movie was eloquently shot, and made good use of conveying emotion and story without dialogue beating you over the head.

It was refreshing for the story to depart from the Edward-Bella dynamic, and give a newly spartanesque Taylor Lautner a chance to flex his acting chops (for the first time since a riveting performance as Sharkboy). His onscreen chemistry with Kristen Stewart comes off a bit cookie-cutter at times, but overall their performances were easily tolerable, if not enjoyable.

Standout among the cast was definitely Kristen Stewart, who came across authentic and heart-wrenching at times (in a good way). She thoroughly put herself in the role of a heartbroken teenager whose world has collapsed around her. I felt a yearning… a longing… like only someone who has been in love can relate to. Suffice to say, despite some sub-par supporting actors, the story comes across happily accurate to the source material. If you’re looking for any plot spoilers, consider that against my religion: the religion of “not ruining a decent movie in the same way trailers show all the good parts.”

Overall, I would recommend seeing this movie, though it would be equally enjoyed from the comfort of your living room (in those ugly worn out pajamas you wouldn’t be caught dead in). My only real beef is with the fact that this is a sequel, which inherently suggests that closure in any tangible sense is going to be M.I.A. This movie is a continuation of a story, and thus no real sense of the formulaic beginning, middle, and end. Since I have yet to come up with some clever way to measure my feelings and sense of approval or distaste, I’ll say that I would give this film three heartfelt slow claps, but with a suspicious eyebrow raised slightly. Take care, and I’ll see you waiting in line for the next one.