When asked about the sequel, Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke stated, "It's got werewolves, it's got visual effects that turn people into werewolves, it's got motorcycle stunts, you go to Italy. It's probably twice as much as this [to film]."
On December 13, 2008, Summit Entertainment released the synopsis of New Moon, which states, "Bella Swan is devastated by the abrupt departure of her vampire love, Edward Cullen, but her spirit is rekindled by her growing friendship with Jacob Black. Suddenly she finds herself drawn into the world of the werewolves, ancestral enemies of the vampires, and finds her loyalties tested."
In early December 2008, it was announced that Catherine Hardwicke would not be returning to direct the sequel. Hardwicke cited time restrictions as the reason behind her leaving the project, saying, "I am sorry that due to timing I will not have the opportunity to direct New Moon. Directing Twilight has been one of the great experiences of my life, and I am grateful to the fans for their passionate support of the film. I wish everyone at Summit the best with the sequel—it is a great story." On December 13, 2008, it was announced that Chris Weitz, director and writer of The Golden Compass and co-director of American Pie, was hired to direct New Moon. Regarding being chosen for the project, Weitz said, "I am honored to have been entrusted with shepherding New Moon from the page to the screen."
