"Turnaround, party of 1?"

I have done a complete 180 regarding my opinion about Juan Antonio Bayona directing "Eclipse". After much consideration; I'm likin' it. And I think I'm likin' it a lot. Eclipse was the one novel that didn't knock the wind out of me like the other three did in spots. I think it needs the horror edge. And after watching his trailer for "The Orphanage" (watch below), I'm completely convinced Bayona will give the film that edge it needs. Amid the creepiness seems to be some beautiful camera work. (But don't push it. The scariest moment will still be when Bella spitefully sleeps on Edward's couch instead of the brand new bed he bought for her. Moron.)

From today's LA Times:

'Twilight' fans, beware: The third film just got a LOT creepier

07:10 AM PT, Mar 12 2009

It's official, according to the trades, the filmmaker behind the hypnotic horror film "The Orphanage" (shown above) will be brought in for the third "Twilight" film. The second movie in the franchise, "New Moon," is due in theaters in November and the third, "Eclipse," is two years out. Here's an excerpt from Dave McNary's story:

Summit Entertainment has tapped Spanish director Juan Antonio Bayona to direct "Eclipse," the third pic in the "Twilight" vampire series.

Summit, which had no comment Wednesday, is expected to make the official announcement soon. The minimajor recently gave "Eclipse" a release date of June 30, 2010.

Bayona's a protege of Guillermo Del Toro. He directed the Spanish-language horror-thriller "The Orphanage," which was exec produced by Del Toro, and is attached to helm the Universal thriller "Hater," with Del Toro and Mark Johnson producing.

Summit's opted for a different director on each "Twilight" pic. Chris Weitz replaced "Twilight" director Catherine Hardwicke on "New Moon."

This promises to take the franchise into some very interesting directions. "Twilight" fans, check out my in-depth 2007 feature on Bayona and the "The Orphanage" to get a sense of the dark place your favorite vamps are headed ... and here's the trailer for "The Orphanage"...

-- Geoff Boucher
Photos: "The Orphanage." Credit: Picturehouse Entertainment