“Twilight” was released in 2005, written by Stephenie Meyer. The book was a phenomenon, with teenagers all around the world picking up the books and hardly ever putting them down. However, when the book’s successor, “New Moon” came out in September of 2006, the infatuation grew. With a love triangle, especially one between two supernatural creatures and a human girl, the appeal was undeniable. The “Twilight” fans quickly became divided into two sections: Team Edward and Team Jacob. But are these teams still intact? Or even relevant after 20 years?
Talan Defoor is a junior at Heritage High School who stands firmly by his belief that Jacob is superior to Edward. “Well, I’m Team Jacob because he’s jacked, he’s ripped, [and] he’s tan,” Defoor said with a slight hint of uncertainty, before pausing. “Uh, okay, but he’s just actually attractive.” Defoor also said that Jacob just seems like a “stand up guy.” When asked about his defense against Edward, the junior said, “Edward is super old. If he can get with Bella, then why can’t Jacob? That age gap is crazy.” Canonically, Edward Cullen is 104 when he meets Bella. However, as explained in the illustrated guide, we learn that Edward’s mental and physical development is paused at 17.
As for sophomores, Jasper Estus is a Jacob hater. During our interview, Jasper stated his beliefs firmly. “Edward is just superior if you watch the movies. I mean, it’s apparent to anyone who has a brain.” When asked what he would say to the people who identify with Team Jacob, he said, “Do you know Jacob? Have you watched the movies? All of them? I mean, have you seen how he is with that baby?” However, Jasper does have some opinions on the age gap between him and Bella. “If you think about it too hard, its weird. But, I mean, they’re both in high school and Edward was bitten at 17. I guess since they’re in high school they’re in the same headspace? But… it’s a lot of space.”
For the tie breaker, I decided that the best person to interview was none other than Mr. Garrett Peace himself. Mr. Peace is self proclaimed “OG Team Edward,” and has plenty of reasons to back up his opinion. “He’s mysterious, he’s stylish, he’s sleek, [and] he’s played by Robert Pattinson…” Peace also stated that Edward is just better for Bella. “I just feel like Edward understands Bella more. They connect on a deeper level. Jacob—he’s too superficial.” We also covered a new topic in this interview, Jacob imprinting on Renesmee, Bella and Edward’s hybrid daughter. “It’s weird, and I don’t like it. And I wish that Meyer hadn’t done that.”
Overall, the “Twilight Saga” is enchanting. There’s nothing quite like it, and I believe that it is still relevant. Personally, I believe the choice between Edward and Jacob is clear as day. But either way, the films give people something to be passionate about. If nothing else, we will always know that Team Edward and Team Jacob are still arguing.
