Support Us
Sign Up
For many of us, 90s action films hold a special place, especially now, after years have passed. I still enjoy revisiting movies like Death Becomes Her, Tremors, or Twister. The sequel to the latter, directed by Lee Isaac Chung, Twisters, is another great ride, even though it doesn’t break new ground. With Glen Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Anthony Ramos leading the ensemble, it’s an exciting summer flick worth watching.
Years after experiencing an awful tragedy, Kate Cooper (Daisy Edgar-Jones) vows never to chase tornadoes again. However, the urge to help others soon draws her back to the stormy fields to work with her old friend, Javi (Anthony Ramos), to test a cutting-edge new tracking device. The tornado hunt gets addictive fast and invites even more attention from the community, especially when the team meets Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), a passionate but reckless social media celebrity whose entire shtick is posting storm-chasing escapades. As the storms grow more severe, the risk is high, and the rival teams must collaborate to survive and help those affected across central Oklahoma.
Twisters review
Twisters wastes no time delivering action. The opening sequence is intense, reminding us of the destructive power of tornadoes. While Edgar-Jones is the central character we’re meant to empathize with, Ramos and Powell also shine, especially Powell with his character’s brash, often arrogant demeanor that frequently provokes Kate. Ramos, too, is a great addition, portraying a man at the crossroads, being forced to make some tough choices.
Although the trio of Edgar-Jones, Ramos, and Powell is at the forefront, it’s also nice to see Katy O’Brian, Brandon Perea, and Kiernan Shipka in supporting roles. As we dive deeper, we can see the characters in Twisters represent two sides: those seeking thrills and those aiming to scientifically study the weather phenomena. And while this narrative is quite absorbing, we can’t forget why we’re here for: crazy weather! As we get to see humans attempting to tame the nature, the director effectively evokes nostalgia for the original.
However, the absence of any original cast members is noticeable, making Twisters feel more like a remake than a sequel. Despite this, the creators and cast keep us betrothed with thrilling chases, playful banter between characters, twin tornadoes, and Tyler’s badass red truck customized to withstand the weather. There are even a few memorable one-liners.
While the action sequences are crucial, Chung also provides moments for reflection. Through this sequel, we are reminded of people’s greed for money and fame, but also of human ignorance and selfishness. At the same time, Kate’s character highlights that some people genuinely care about others’ well-being and are willing to help whenever needed.
Ultimately, Twisters is a decent summer flick that pairs well with Jan de Bont’s 1996 classic. It will certainly make a great double feature. Despite its flaws such as unevenly developed characters and sometimes exaggerated script, it still manages to deliver a fun ride with eye-catching weather action and a brief reflection. Though it’s not a masterpiece, it will be a good watch for those seeking a thrill.
Grade: B-
Twisters
As storm season intensifies, the paths of former storm chaser Kate Carter and reckless social-media superstar Tyler Owens collide when terrifying phenomena never seen before are unleashed. The pair and their competing teams find themselves squarely in the paths of multiple storm systems converging over central Oklahoma in the fight of their lives.
Release Date: July 19, 2024
Director: Lee Isaac Chung
Cast: Daisy Edgar-Jones , Glen Powell , Anthony Ramos
