Released in French cinemas on November 16, 2011, Twilight - Chapitre 4 : Révélation 1ère partie (original title: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1) is directed by Bill Condon, with a screenplay by Melissa Rosenberg based on Stephenie Meyer's fourth novel. This installment signals the beginning of the saga’s final chapter, featuring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner. The film will be available for streaming on HBO Max starting from March 29, 2026.
Bella Swan has made a pivotal decision: she is about to marry Edward Cullen. This union marks the culmination of a relationship built on forbidden grounds, but it also raises immediate, critical questions about transformation, abandoning her human life, and the irreversible consequences of this commitment.
The couple's honeymoon marks a tonal shift from earlier chapters. The story takes on a more visceral and mature edge, as Bella faces upheavals she hadn't foreseen. The body and identity become battlegrounds, while the delicate balance between the various factions begins to waver.
Jacob Black, always on the periphery of the couple, finds his role shifting in light of recent events. Without giving away any spoilers, this first installment sets the stage for a major turning point—both personally and mythologically—that will shape the final chapter of the saga.
With Twilight - Chapter 4: Breaking Dawn - Part 1, Bill Condon chooses a more calm and introspective approach. The film focuses on emotional development and the psychological transformation of its heroine, rather than straightforward action, fully embracing its role as a transitional chapter.
The production boasts a significantly larger budget than previous installments, largely due to the extensive filming and the increased use of visual effects. Shooting took place in Brazil, Canada, and the British Virgin Islands. Cinematography was handled by Guillermo Navarro, while the visual effects were overseen by John Bruno—both Oscar winners for their prior work.
This installment primarily targets fans of supernatural romances and those invested in Bella and Edward’s journey. More heartfelt than action-packed, it sets the stage both narratively and emotionally for the finale, exploring themes like marriage, sacrifice, and the final loss of innocence.
Twilight - Breaking Dawn: Part 1
Movie | 2011
Release date in theaters: November 16, 2011
Available on HBO Max on March 29, 2026
Fantasy, romance | Duration: 1h57
Directed by Bill Condon | Starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner
Original title: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1
Country: United States
The first part of a divided conclusion, Twilight - Chapter 4: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 adopts a darker, more mature tone, focusing on the irreversible consequences of love and desire. A pivotal installment, designed as a crucial step toward the final transformation of the saga.
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