Twilight, it would seem, is here to stay. At least for a few more films.

The first – eponymous – film, directed by Catherine Hardwicke, was a hit (not really surprising given the built-in fanbase) and profitable given the carefully low budget.

The sequel, New Moon is currently wrapping its final shots and continuing post-production to meet a tough November release deadline.

So as the anticipation mounts, we thought we’d offer newcomers a look back at the franchise that spawned a million enthusiastic fans...



1. Dream A Little Dream

Author Stephenie Meyer says that she got the idea for Twilight and its blend of romance, horror and glittery-skinned vampires on 2 June 2003 as part of a dream.

Despite limited writing experience, Meyer was inspired enough to sit down and crank out the first book in three months, before editing it and convincing publishers Little, Brown And Company to hand over $750,000 for a three-book deal based solely on that novel and the concept.

Editor Megan Tingley apparently signed on after reading just half the manuscript, believing she had a bestseller on her hands.

The first book arrived in 2005 and won several awards. But unlike Harry Potter, it became a sensation targeted  towards a specific audience - teenage girls and their mothers, who loved the blend of romance and drama.

Edward Cullen, Bella Swan and the rest of the gang were on their way to phenomenon status.

And given the earning power and the three-book deal, it was only natural that sequels would follow.

But first, let's go back to the beginning…

Next: The Basics: Twilight...