“Twisters” A High-Stakes Tornado Thriller. MOVIE REVIEW.

 “Twisters”

 A High-Stakes Tornado Thriller.

MOVIE REVIEW.

 

Twisters, the gripping sequel to the 1996 classic Twister, takes the audience on a heart-pounding journey through the perilous world of storm chasing. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung and produced by Frank Marshall and Patty Jenkins, this film revisits the awe-inspiring and terrifying power of nature, blending intense action with a deeply human story of resilience, redemption, and the pursuit of scientific discovery.

 

Twisters premiered at the Cineworld Leicester Square in London on July 8, 2024, and was released internationally by Warner Bros. Pictures on July 10 and in the United States by Universal Pictures on July 19. It received generally positive reviews from critics.

 

Set in the heartland of Oklahoma, Twisters follows the life of Kate Carter, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, a former storm chaser turned NOAA meteorologist. The movie opens with Kate and her team of storm chasers, including her boyfriend Jeb, and friends Javi, Addy, and Praveen, attempting a groundbreaking experiment. They aim to reduce the intensity of tornadoes by launching barrels of sodium polyacrylate beads into them using a doppler device named Dorothy V. The mission turns catastrophic when the tornado escalates into an EF5, leading to the tragic deaths of Jeb, Addy, and Praveen, and leaving Kate traumatized and guilt-ridden.

 

Five years later, Kate has left storm chasing behind, seeking solace in a desk job at NOAA in New York City. Her past catches up with her when Javi, now a member of the Storm Par mobile tornado radar team, invites her to test a new phased-array radar system designed to improve tornado prediction and save lives. Initially reluctant, Kate is spurred into action by a devastating tornado that strikes without warning, rekindling her sense of duty and purpose. 

 

Upon returning to Oklahoma, Kate reunites with Javi and meets his business partner Scott. They are soon joined by Tyler Owens, a charismatic YouTube storm chaser known as the "Tornado Wrangler," played by Glen Powell. Tyler, accompanied by his crew of Boone, Dani, Dexter, and Lily, along with British journalist Ben, represents a contrasting perspective on storm chasing—balancing scientific pursuits with commercial endeavors.

 

The teams face numerous challenges as they chase a series of tornadoes, ranging from EF1 to a catastrophic EF5. Each chase tests their skills, bravery, and the resilience of their experimental technologies. Kate's journey is marked by a harrowing personal struggle as she battles panic attacks and the haunting memories of her past, ultimately finding her strength in the camaraderie and shared mission of her team.

 

Twisters delves deeply into themes of redemption and the relentless pursuit of scientific innovation. Kate's journey from a guilt-ridden survivor to a determined storm chaser reflects the film's emotional core. Her evolving relationship with Tyler, a character initially perceived as a glory-seeking opportunist, reveals unexpected depths and a shared commitment to helping tornado victims.

 

The film also tackles ethical dilemmas, particularly through the character of Marshall Riggs, a profiteer exploiting tornado-ravaged communities. Kate's confrontation with Javi about Riggs' intentions adds a layer of moral complexity, questioning the true cost of scientific advancement and disaster response.

 

Twisters excels in its depiction of tornadoes, blending cutting-edge visual effects with real-world meteorological accuracy. Director Lee Isaac Chung captures the sheer power and unpredictability of these natural phenomena, immersing viewers in the chaos and destruction of each storm chase. The film's standout sequences include a massive EF4 tornado striking a rodeo in Stillwater and the climactic EF5 tornado threatening El Reno.

 

The action reaches its peak during the El Reno tornado sequence, where Kate and her team face their ultimate test. In a desperate bid to save the town's residents, Kate devises a last-ditch plan to launch silver iodide-enhanced beads into the tornado. This high-stakes gamble pays off, culminating in a visually stunning and emotionally charged climax.

 

The performances in Twisters are a testament to the film's emotional depth. Daisy Edgar-Jones delivers a compelling portrayal of Kate, capturing the character's vulnerability and determination. Her chemistry with Glen Powell's Tyler adds a layer of warmth and humor, balancing the film's intense action.

 

Supporting performances from Anthony Ramos as Javi and Lewis Pullman as Scott enrich the narrative, providing insights into the challenges and ethical quandaries of storm chasing. The ensemble cast, including Tyler's crew and journalist Ben, adds diversity and perspective, highlighting different motivations and stakes in the world of tornado chasing.

 

Twisters not only honors the legacy of its predecessor but also carves its path with a modern and emotionally resonant story. The film successfully combines thrilling action with profound themes of redemption, innovation, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of nature's fury.

 

As the closing montage reveals, Kate, Tyler, and Javi embark on a new venture, combining their expertise to further advance tornado prediction and safety measures. This hopeful ending, coupled with the film's intense and emotional journey, ensures that Twisters will leave a lasting impact on audiences.

 

With its compelling narrative, standout performances, and breathtaking visual effects, Twisters reaffirms the power of storytelling and cinema to explore the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world.