Twisters Review | A Much Better Reboot Than You’d Think

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Twisters Review | A Much Better Reboot Than You'd Think

Summary

  • Twisters
    offers some stunning visuals and terrifying sequences, keeping viewers invested in its likable characters.
  • Powell, Edgar-Jones, and Ramos shine in this very entertaining, old-school popcorn sequel that stands out from other reboots.
  • Director Lee Isaac Chung and cinematographer Dan Mindel bring gritty, heart-pounding moments to life in this action-packed film.

As a longtime fan of thrilling movies that leave me on the edge of my seat, I have to admit I was initially skeptical about Twisters. The idea of yet another disaster film seemed unappealing, especially given the oversaturation of the genre in recent years. But having watched the latest trailer and read some glowing reviews from fellow movie enthusiasts, my curiosity was piqued.

I used to be among those who rolled their eyes when the trailer for “Twisters” aired during the Super Bowl this year. “An ‘S’ and that’s it? Really?” I thought, as I watched acclaimed actors like Daisy Edgar-Jones, Anthony Ramos, and Glen Powell seemingly selling out to star in what looked like a big-budget summer popcorn pseudo-sequel to the Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures collaboration from almost 30 years ago. But as I delve deeper into the world of film, my perspective has shifted. I now appreciate that behind every project, no matter how seemingly formulaic or commercial, lies a team of talented individuals striving to create something unique and engaging for audiences. And so, while “Twisters” may not be the groundbreaking cinematic masterpiece some of us might have hoped for, it’s still an opportunity for these actors to showcase their skills in new and exciting ways. I’m keeping an open mind and looking forward to seeing what they bring to the table.

Don’t worry if you’re disappointed about the absence of Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, and Philip Seymour Hoffmann in the new “Twisters.” While their performances in the original were iconic, the new cast delivers surprisingly strong acting that has been overshadowed by promotional trailers. You might be skeptical after seeing Glen Powell wearing a cowboy hat in previews, but think of it as a different take on Tom Cruise’s charisma from “Top Gun: Maverick.” And if you’re still uncertain, remember that Tom Cruise is a fan of the original, which is a good indication of the film’s merit. Overall, it’s a classic summer blockbuster done well.

Daisy Edgar-Jones & Glen Powell Brace for Impact

Twisters outshine some other Universal Pictures reboots, including the Jurassic series. The initial Jurassic World installation introduced a campy and entertaining vibe that made it clear the young characters and leading actors were unlikely to meet their demise at the hands of dinosaurs.

Later on, the movie “Twisters” arrives with an extended introductory scene that leaves you wondering which characters will make it through the initial tornado and who won’t survive. It’s truly frightening to see tornado chaser Kate (played by Edgar-Jones) and her haphazard crew undertake their perilous quest to test her advanced equipment, which could potentially tame certain tornados if used correctly and at the right moment.

If things don’t turn out as intended in the story, we skip ahead five years. During this time, Kate’s friend and colleague Javi, played by Anthony Ramos, has managed to locate her. He’s hopeful that she might be willing to try “chasing” once more, despite the past tragedy between them. Enter Glen Powell, Hollywood’s emerging Cary Grant-like talent, who joins the storyline along with the remnants of the original film. It seems there’s a lot of competition in the world of tornado chasing. Tyler Owens, a fictional YouTube sensation and portrayed by Powell, even refers to himself as a professional “herder” of these natural disasters.

When Kate goes back to her hometown in Oklahoma to assist Javi in his risky tornado research project for a questionable power broker, it turns out that Owens is there as well. Kate proves to be exceptionally skilled at predicting tornados, much like Cary Elwes followed Helen Hunt’s lead in the 1996 film’s original version. In simpler terms, Kate and Javi go to Oklahoma for a dangerous job collecting tornado data for a suspicious wealthy person. Meanwhile, Owens arrives and discovers that Kate has a unique ability to sense upcoming tornados, just like Cary Elwes followed Helen Hunt in the 1996 film.

Lee Isaac Chung Makes a Great (But Long) Blockbuster

Twisters Review | A Much Better Reboot Than You'd ThinkTwisters Review | A Much Better Reboot Than You'd ThinkTwisters Review | A Much Better Reboot Than You'd Think

The narrative flows smoothly, and I must admit, it’s quite standard for large-scale productions. However, the prolonged lead-up to the climax could have been shortened, potentially by fifteen minutes or more. Yet, the ending is powerfully moving and includes an unexpected meta twist that adds to the excitement. In the face of despair, a small Oklahoma town experiences an unexpected final turn of events, leaving audiences fist-pumping and cheering in the cinema.

As a gamer, I can tell you that this game offers non-stop excitement most of the time. If you can’t create an immersive experience like IMAX, then watching it on the big screen is definitely worth considering. It may come as a surprise that Lee Isaac Chung, who made “Twisters,” is now attempting his first major production after the success of “Minari” (2020) in the awards circuit. Some might wonder if he’s ready for such a daring challenge. In my opinion, absolutely!

Top Gun: Maverick and J.J. Abrams Styled Thrills with a Charming Cast

You might be intrigued to know that Joseph Kosinski, who directed “Top Gun: Maverick,” also has a writing credit for “Twisters.” Although it’s unclear if he had any directorial influence on the film, there’s no doubt that the movie delivers an adrenaline rush through its stunning cinematography and visually captivating scenes. These sequences draw you in close to the excitement and keep you from suspecting they were made using green screens – for the most part.

I’m a big fan of Chung’s collaborations with cinematographer Dan Mindel. He’s J.J. Abrams’ go-to guy for a reason, having worked on some of his most iconic projects like “Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” and “Mission: Impossible III.” When it comes to those heart-stopping moments where our favorite characters are at the mercy of Mother Nature, Chung and Mindel don’t hold back. They use gritty, dirty framing with handheld cameras to make every near-miss feel real and raw. And trust me, you’ll be rooting for these likable actors to pull through. Newcomer Edgar-Jones cements her place as a Hollywood heavyweight in this role, while Powell continues to shine bright like the star he is. But even the haters will find it hard not to appreciate this standout performance.

Starting July 17, the movies “Twisters” produced by Universal Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures will hit theaters.

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2024-07-16 00:33