I must hand it to the director, David Yates, for delivering the proper mood and feel for this and the last film. The actors have done a fine job performing in this installment. While I was watching the movie, I checked my watch at least twice -- very unusual for me. I felt that the first 75 minutes was far too slow. Yes, the book is similar, but there were things they could have done to move the film along. Flashbacks, memory scenes, etc. It really began to drag. The last hour began to move, and the movie climactic ending is fine, but we could have had more build up with the details and less staring at the big tent. Hopefully they will tighten up the second half.
This adaptation of the popular books stands well on its own with good performances from Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson. The angst of the characters are well played without being melodramatic or silly. At moments funny, the film has good pacing for the most part, though a little slow at the opening. Cinematography takes advantage of the expansive views of the Pacific Northwest while coloration of the film always supports the mood. A worthwhile endeavor. Let us hope they keep it up and continue to improve the films as the series unfolds.