Okay, fellow Twilight fans, let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer chaos and brilliance of the Twilight saga. This franchise didn’t just dominate the book sales charts—selling over 160 million copies—but it also broke records at the box office. I mean, can we talk about the fact that the first movie raked in a stunning $192 million in the U.S. alone? Total vibes! 💰✨
The Unexpected Post-Launch Gift
In a recent chat with The Guardian, director Catherine Hardwicke shared a story that perfectly encapsulates the mixed bag of Hollywood recognition. After Twilight’s blockbuster opening weekend in November 2008—where it made a whopping $69 million—Catherine walked into a room filled with congratulatory gifts from the studio, only to find… a mini cupcake waiting for her. 😳
Now, let’s be real. While it’s cute, it’s a bit underwhelming compared to what successful male directors typically receive, like a brand-new car or a multi-picture deal. It’s like, “Hello? I just directed a franchise that changed the game!” But hey, that’s the reality check of the industry, right? Who else thinks this is a little unfair? 🤔
Overcoming Industry Doubts
Catherine’s journey into directing Twilight wasn’t just about cupcakes and box office numbers; it was also a story of perseverance in the face of skepticism. On the Watchalong podcast with Josh Horowitz, she revealed that every studio in Hollywood initially turned down the project, doubting its appeal to young women. Like, can you believe that? 🙄
She recalled how studios compared Twilight to other films, saying, “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants made $29 million; that’s probably all this movie can ever make.” But spoiler alert: it opened with $69 million and went on to gross $400 million globally! Talk about proving them wrong! 💥
Even just days before its release, the studio was bracing for a $30 million opening, thinking that would be a win. Little did they know, they were sitting on a goldmine! The franchise eventually became a trailblazer, with three films earning over $130 million each in their opening weekend. Plot twist: Twilight became a cultural phenomenon, and the naysayers had to eat their words. 🍿🌟
The Legacy of Twilight
The impact of Twilight on the film industry and pop culture is undeniable. It not only launched an entire franchise but also paved the way for more stories featuring strong female leads. This saga has created a community of fans that continues to thrive even years later. So, what’s your favorite Twilight moment? Are you team Edward or team Jacob? Let’s chat! 💬❤️
As we look back at Twilight’s journey, let’s remember that every success story has its ups and downs. Catherine Hardwicke’s experience shows us that even when the industry doubts you, your passion and vision can create something truly magical. And who knows what’s next for the Twilight universe? #TwilightSaga #CatherineHardwicke #HollywoodStories
