I was pleasantly surprised by Twisters, the latest summer blockbuster that hits theaters this week.
Going into this viewing, I was guarded, given the current climate of sequels, especially those emerging over two decades after the original. However, I left the theater more than pleased with both the film itself and the overall theater experience. Twisters stands out as a revival that is a breath of fresh air, successfully capturing the spirit of its predecessor while elevating the stakes in a fresh addition to the franchise.
From the outset, Twisters grabs your attention with an opening sequence that makes it clear the film intends to surpass the scale of the original. The visual spectacle is impressive, with cutting-edge CGI that vividly brings the ferocity of tornadoes to life. The tornado scenes are breathtaking, effectively putting the viewer in the middle of the danger. The visuals are just top-notch, creating an immersive experience that is likely best appreciated on a big screen.
Anchoring the film are strong performances from Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Powell, with his charismatic presence, and Edgar-Jones, with her compelling emotional range, share a dynamic on-screen chemistry that drives the narrative forward. However, it’s the supporting characters that also shine and provide a necessary change-of-pace/comedic relief.
Twisters excels in keeping the audience invested from start to finish. The storyline is engaging, with constant action sequences that maintain a high level of excitement and the film does a remarkable job of keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. There are a few moments that might feel like they’re dragging, but this is more a testament to how engrossing the film’s many tornado action sequences are. These slower scenes also provide necessary breathing room, allowing the characters to develop and the audience to catch their breath before the third act.
One area where Twisters takes a bit of a risk is its scientific explanations and the leaps it makes regarding tornado prevention. At times, the film delves a bit too deeply into the science, which might feel a tad overwhelming or implausible. However, this is a minor quibble in the grand scheme of things. The film’s primary goal is to entertain, and it succeeds in spades. The exaggerated science is a small price to pay but is a necessary buy-in if you have hopes of enjoying this one.
Another highlight of Twisters is its soundtrack. The movie features a seemingly never-ending lineup of country music superstars, providing a fitting and enjoyable backdrop to the high-octane action. The score is equally well done, enhancing the film’s emotional beats and heightening the tension during critical moments.
Overall, Twisters is a thrilling ride that breathes new life into a beloved classic. It manages to honor the original while carving out its own identity, thanks to strong performances, a captivating storyline, and top-tier visual effects. This is a film that should be seen in theaters, where its full impact can be appreciated. For fans of the original, or even just those that love action-packed disaster movies, Twisters is a must-watch.
Rating: 8.5/10
