The Twilight Saga Screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg talks New Moon and Eclipse

Twilight screenwriter Melissa Rosenberg talks to ET about what the fans can expect in the next two movies.

ET: What can you tell us about 'New Moon' and 'Eclipse'?

Melissa Rosenberg: It becomes bigger in scope. The first film was really a small romance in a way. There was the battle with James (Cam Gigandet) at the end. That was as big as it got. With 'New Moon,' we have the werewolf clan, we have the Vulturi -- and in 'Eclipse,' there is an epic battle, so with every book, with every episode of the movie, it gets grander in scope, which is fun to write. What was great about that, too, is with the small story and the characters ... to be able to grow with it and track it through, it has really been a great pleasure.

ET: Are you writing for the chemistry between Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart?

Melissa Rosenberg: When I wrote 'Twilight,' I didn't know who was starring in it, so I wrote in a vacuum. There was some rewriting that had to be done when we knew who they were, because I had started with more of a comedic edge and it wasn't appropriate for those actors and the tone. I lean toward the dark comedy, witness "Dexter." So, going into 'New Moon' and 'Eclipse,' I knew who I was writing for. I knew who the characters were and what their voices were. It got even easier with 'Eclipse.' [Author] Stephenie Meyer's created the character's chemistry; and those two actors brought so much chemistry. I don't think the movies would have been so successful without those two actors and their chemistry. 'Twilight' was beautifully cast.

ET: What was the set of 'New Moon' like?

Melissa Rosenberg: 'New Moon' was one of the happiest sets I have ever been on. The guy who picked me up, said, "This is a great set. [Director] Chris Weitz is a genius. It is so wonderful." I was, "Okay, dude, you are overselling." But I got on the set and it was just delightful. You can tell when it is uncomfortable and they are not connecting. Chris Weitz is just a Zen master. I went to him and I was, "You are so cool and calm. And everyone is so cool and calm." He said, "You have no idea what it is going to cost me." My husband is a director and I know what it costs him. You have to tamp down every ounce of panic and frustration in order to project this calmness. I hope Chris got a good vacation between production and post.

ET: What do you think of the recasting of Rachelle Lefevre?

Melissa Rosenberg: I love Rachelle, but Bryce Dallas Howard? It was a shame, but I think Rachelle will go on to do brilliant things. I just love her. I am sure Bryce will be great.

ET: There is a fourth book. Will the franchise continue?

Melissa Rosenberg: I can't imagine Summit letting that go. Right now we are focused on 'Eclipse.' We are just about to start. I imagine there will be discussions.

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