Two decades ago, Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight sank its teeth into pop culture—and the world hasn’t been the same since. Released on October 5, 2005, the YA vampire romance became a global sensation, sparking midnight book releases, movie marathons, and the unforgettable Team Edward vs. Team Jacob debate that defined a generation.
Now, 20 years later, it’s time to relive the glitter, the growls, and the teenage angst as we rank all five Twilight movies from worst to best. Grab your apple, dim the lights, and let’s take a nostalgic bite.
5. Breaking Dawn – Part 2 (2012)
How do you say goodbye to a group of immortal vampires? The franchise finale tries its best, giving Bella (now fully vamped-up) her moment of power and parenthood. Watching her test out her new abilities—super speed, brute strength, and a literal force field—is undeniably thrilling.
But then there’s that CGI baby face of little Renesmee, which remains one of cinema’s most haunting special effects choices. While the final showdown with the Volturi injects some real adrenaline (and a clever twist that still surprises first-time viewers), Part 2 often feels like a long goodbye rather than a fresh beginning.
Still, seeing Bella and Edward’s love come full circle? Bittersweet perfection.
4. Twilight (2008)
The one that started it all—and what a moody, blue-tinted fever dream it was. When Bella Swan moves to rainy Forks, Washington, she’s immediately drawn to mysterious classmate Edward Cullen, who looks like he’s perpetually holding his breath (because, well, he is).
Their chemistry is awkward, magnetic, and undeniably weird—and that’s exactly what makes it work. Between the iconic forest confrontation (“Say it. Out loud.”) and the indie-rock perfection of its soundtrack, Twilight is a film that thrives in its own melodrama.
Sure, the pacing drags at times, but as an introduction to Meyer’s world of brooding vampires and dramatic declarations of love, it’s deliciously eerie and unforgettable.
3. Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (2011)
Who knew a vampire wedding could be so dreamy and so disturbing? Breaking Dawn – Part 1 opens on a romantic high, as Bella and Edward finally tie the knot in a gorgeous forest ceremony that had every fan swooning. But the honeymoon bliss doesn’t last long—cue the shock pregnancy and one of the most visceral birth scenes in the franchise.
The mix of romance, body horror, and high-stakes drama somehow works, and Kristen Stewart delivers one of her strongest performances as a fragile yet determined Bella. It’s the calm before the storm, and it sets the stage for the saga’s final transformation—literally.
2. New Moon (2009)
Heartbreak has never looked this cinematic. When Edward leaves Bella “for her own good,” she spirals into a beautifully shot depression montage that gave every teenager in 2009 major feels. Enter Jacob Black—shirtless, sweet, and ready to heal her broken heart (and fix her motorcycle).
New Moon dives deeper into the lore of Meyer’s world, introducing the werewolf pack and the ancient Volturi, while exploring grief, friendship, and reckless teenage rebellion. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that proves Twilight isn’t just about vampires—it’s about the messy, painful, beautiful process of letting go.
Team Edward may have won in the end, but Team Jacob had the emotional edge here.
1. Eclipse (2010)
The crown jewel of the Twilight saga. Eclipse has everything—romance, action, jealousy, and some of the most quotable moments in the entire franchise. Bella finds herself caught in the middle of a supernatural love triangle as Edward and Jacob battle for her heart (and occasionally, each other’s jaws).
Meanwhile, the threat of Victoria and her army of newborn vampires forces the Cullens and the Quileute wolves into an uneasy alliance, leading to the most exciting battle of the series. The pacing is tight, the tension is palpable, and the emotional stakes feel higher than ever.
By the end, Bella finally chooses Edward, breaking Jacob’s heart—and ours. But for pure entertainment value, Eclipse shines the brightest in this eternally sparkly saga.
The Eternal Appeal of Twilight
Say what you will about the questionable CGI, the dramatic stares, or the sparkly vampires—The Twilight Saga remains iconic. It gave us unforgettable characters, a killer soundtrack, and an entire fandom that still howls (and swoons) today.
As Twilight celebrates its 20th anniversary, one thing is clear: this love story, for better or worse, is immortal.
