Disaster movies have always sparked a mix of fascination and skepticism, and “Twisters,” directed by Lee Isaac Chung, is no exception. The film, which stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos, hits theaters this Thursday and brings a fresh yet familiar take on storm-chasing thrillers.
“Twisters” follows a new generation of storm chasers, led by Edgar-Jones’ character, Kate, who has a traumatic history with tornadoes. Despite the risks, she returns to Tornado Alley with her friend Javi (Ramos) for another attempt at studying these massive storms. Powell plays Tyler, a YouTube star and storm wrangler, adding a modern twist to the crew.
The film pays homage to the original 1996 “Twister” with numerous references and familiar elements, such as the Dorothy technology. While some might find these callbacks distracting, they also create a bridge between the two films. The characters and their dynamics are new, but echoes of the past are evident throughout the movie.
Chung, known for his work on “Minari,” successfully transitions to big-screen action with escalating sequences that are both thrilling and visually impressive. The opening scene sets the tone with a dramatic tornado encounter, giving Kate a compelling backstory. The action sequences are crafted to look great on the big screen, making “Twisters” a solid cinematic experience.
Edgar-Jones and Powell lead the cast with strong performances and palpable chemistry. Their interactions and character arcs are engaging, even as they delve into scientific monologues. The supporting cast, including Sasha Lane and Katy O’Brian, bring depth to their roles, though some may feel they are underutilized.
“Twisters” is a well-made disaster film that balances action, nostalgia, and character development. While it might lean heavily on references to its predecessor, it stands on its own as an entertaining and visually captivating movie. Fans of the original “Twister” and newcomers alike will find something to enjoy in this rousing sequel.
The film opens in theaters on Thursday and promises to deliver the kind of thrilling, chaotic fun that disaster movie fans crave. Whether you’re drawn by the action or the homage to the 1996 classic, “Twisters” is set to be a stormy ride worth taking.
