“Twisters” spun into theaters on Friday, July 19 and took the box office by storm. Bringing in $31 million on opening day, both fans of the original and new audiences were rushing to theaters to see this fun summer film.
A Nod to the Original
There are plenty of nods to the original 1996 film “Twister” — including a cameo from Bill Paxton’s son.
Daisy Edgar Jones’ Kate is seen sporting an outfit similar to the one Helen Hunt wears when audiences first meet her as Jo.
Glen Powell’s Tyler is seen chasing tornados in a red Dodge Ram similar to the red truck Bill Paxton’s Bill Harding drives in the original. Tyler’s may be more souped-up than Bill’s was but it’s still a touching homage to Paxton.
All of the characters have combined elements of the original crew in the most beautiful way, while still maintaining their own personality. Kate has both the bold personality of Jo and elements of Bill’s story. Tyler, being the charismatic tornado wrangler, embodies Bill while also capturing the feeling of returning to your roots that Jo represented.
Of course, the original tornado-measuring machine, Dorothy, makes an appearance in the opening sequence, immediately giving fans a sense of nostalgia and taking them back to the world of “Twister.”
Similar Story With a Twist
Despite “Twisters” being a stand-alone sequel, it mirrors the original. After leaving due to a traumatic event, a retired storm-chaser finds themselves sucked back into the lifestyle when someone from their past comes knocking. Still trying to keep their distance by stating “I’m not back,” they end up staying when they realize how passionate they are about it and how much difference their technology can make.
While there are still moments of tension, the romance is less of a focus than it was in the original. Instead, the intense action sequences of the tornadoes, the science behind them and the destruction were the focus.
Despite director Lee Isaac Chung stating that climate change purposely wasn’t mentioned in the movie because he didn’t want to preach a message, the film’s topic of extreme and worsening weather couldn’t help but reflect the climate crisis we live in.
With a strong focus on science and how research and technology can make a difference in the community, this entertaining summer movie might just end up inspiring the next generation of meteorologists.
Powerful Soundtrack
This movie was very soundtrack-heavy with an accompanying album featuring 29 new songs. Sometimes it was a bit much, feeling like every moment had its own theme song even when it wasn’t necessary.
The album features the hottest names in country music right now including music from veterans like Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs and Shania Twain, to new artists Jelly Roll and Benson Boone. Combs’ gritty “Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma” gives listeners the chance to feel like they’re storm chasers and was a huge part of getting audiences excited for the film.
The insane action sequences, fun accompanying album and stellar cast make for the perfect rollicking summer flick.
