Review by Jon Donnis
Twisters is the latest American disaster film is a thrilling standalone sequel to the 1996 classic "Twister." Directed by Lee Isaac Chung with a screenplay by Mark L. Smith from a story by Joseph Kosinski. This film follows the story of Kate Cooper, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, a former storm chaser now studying storm patterns from the safety of New York City. Haunted by a traumatic tornado encounter during her college years, Kate is drawn back to the open plains by her friend Javi, portrayed by Anthony Ramos, to test a groundbreaking new tracking system.
Upon returning to storm-chasing, Kate encounters Tyler Owens, a charming and reckless social media superstar played by Glen Powell. Tyler thrives on documenting his daring storm-chasing adventures with his lively crew, pushing the limits for more dangerous and thrilling content. As the storm season reaches its peak, Kate, Tyler, and their respective teams face unprecedented and terrifying weather phenomena. They find themselves in a perilous situation as multiple storm systems converge over central Oklahoma, leading to a battle for survival.
The film boasts a strong cast with Daisy Edgar-Jones delivering a compelling performance as the cautious yet determined Kate. Glen Powell's portrayal of the charismatic Tyler adds a dynamic contrast, embodying the thrill-seeking spirit of a modern-day storm chaser. Anthony Ramos brings depth to his role as Javi, adding a layer of emotional connection to Kate's journey. Supporting roles from Brandon Perea, Maura Tierney, Harry Hadden-Paton, and others round out a well-chosen ensemble.
"Twisters" excels as a perfect summer blockbuster, capturing the allure of storm chasing with high-energy performances and jaw-dropping action set pieces. The film's visual effects are spectacular, depicting the destructive power of tornadoes with stunning realism. While the CGI may sometimes feel too polished, it contributes to the overall immersive experience, making the audience feel as if they are right in the midst of the storm.
One of the film's strengths is its ability to avoid relying heavily on nostalgia, choosing instead to introduce new characters and fresh narratives. This approach allows "Twisters" to stand on its own while still paying homage to its predecessor. The film also sidesteps political issues such as climate change, focusing purely on delivering a thrilling and entertaining experience.
However, some viewers might find that "Twisters" lacks the charm of the original "Twister." The polished CGI, while impressive, may not evoke the same sense of tangible danger and authenticity that practical effects achieved in the 1996 film. Nonetheless, as a summer blockbuster, "Twisters" achieves its goal of providing a fun, adrenaline-pumping experience.
Twisters is a successful sequel that brings the excitement of storm chasing to a new generation. While it may not capture all the nuances of the original, it stands out with its captivating action sequences, engaging performances, and a fresh storyline. With its blend of high stakes, a budding romance, and very cool country music, "Twisters" is an enjoyable summer film that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. I was pleasantly surprised by the film and would score it a strong 9 out of 10.
Out in cinemas NOW!
