Twisters Review: A Whirlwind of Nostalgia and Modern Thrills

Lee Isaac Chung's "Twisters" swoops into theaters nearly three decades after the original "Twister" took audiences by storm. This standalone sequel manages to capture the spirit of its predecessor while updating the formula for modern audiences, resulting in a fun, if somewhat predictable, summer blockbuster.

A New Generation of Storm Chasers

Glen Powell steals the show as Tyler, a charismatic YouTuber who chases tornadoes for views. His magnetic presence lights up the screen, bringing a perfect blend of charm and bravado to the role. Opposite him is Daisy Edgar-Jones as Kate, a scientist haunted by a tragic past. While Edgar-Jones brings a quiet intensity to her role, her subdued performance sometimes feels at odds with the film's high-energy sequences.

The chemistry between Powell and Edgar-Jones drives much of the film's emotional core, even if their romance feels a bit rushed at times. The supporting cast, including Anthony Ramos as Kate's old friend Javi, adds depth to the ensemble, though some characters feel underutilized.

Spectacle Meets Heart

Chung, known for his intimate storytelling in "Minari," brings a surprising amount of heart to this big-budget spectacle. While the film doesn't shy away from showcasing impressive tornado sequences, it also takes time to explore the human cost of these disasters. This balance helps ground the movie, giving weight to the high-stakes chases and narrow escapes.

The special effects are, as expected, a significant step up from the 1996 original. The tornadoes feel menacing and awe-inspiring, with several sequences that are genuinely breathtaking. A particular highlight involves a tornado transforming into a terrifying fire vortex, showcasing the destructive beauty of these natural phenomena.

Nostalgia with a Modern Twist

"Twisters" walks a fine line between paying homage to its predecessor and forging its own identity. Fans of the original will appreciate subtle callbacks, including the return of the data-gathering device Dorothy. However, the film doesn't rely too heavily on nostalgia, instead focusing on contemporary themes like the ethics of chasing disasters for social media fame.

The movie also touches on climate change and its impact on extreme weather, though it doesn't delve too deeply into the subject. This light approach to serious topics may disappoint some viewers looking for more substance behind the spectacle.

Verdict: A Fun Summer Ride

Despite some shortcomings in character development and a somewhat formulaic plot, "Twisters" succeeds as an entertaining summer blockbuster. It delivers on its promise of thrilling tornado-chasing action while providing enough emotional stakes to keep audiences invested.

Lee Isaac Chung's direction brings a touch of indie sensibility to the big-budget production, resulting in a film that feels both familiar and fresh. While it may not reach the iconic status of its predecessor, "Twisters" offers a fun, effects-driven experience that's best enjoyed on the big screen.

If you're looking for a movie that will blow you away with its visuals and charm you with its cast, "Twisters" is worth chasing down at your local theater. Just don't expect it to reinvent the wheel – or in this case, the tornado.