Review: Twisters

Despite its title, Twisters isn’t really about tornadoes. Don’t get me wrong; they serve a vitally important narrative function. They are not, however, the primary subject of the story; they are simply a convenient plot device—catalysts at best, mere props at worst. Director Lee Isaac Chung instead emphasizes theme and characterization, lending the drama personal stakes beyond the obvious physical threat posed by natural disasters. In this movie, the act of chasing storms is a powerful and versatile metaphor. Sometimes, it symbolizes confronting your fears and overcoming past traumas; in other instances, it signifies rediscovering and embracing one’s forgotten passions and ambitions. And occasionally, it’s even a substitute for flirtation—reading the wind can be a romantic meet cute; driving straight into the heart of a violent vortex might as well be a first kiss.

Of course, this raw material would collapse under its own weight without the support of great performances; fortunately, Twisters has plenty of those to spare, challenging the current theory that the archetypal Movie Star is an endangered species. Glen Powell ignites the screen as Tyler Owens, an arrogant adrenaline junkie with hidden depths and a heart of gold; the effortless chemistry that he contributes to every scene is palpable. At the opposite end of the spectrum, David Corenswet is quietly brilliant as Scott, an unapologetic corporate stooge; essentially playing the role as the most aggressively bland and boring man to ever exist, his deliberate lack of charisma makes him a fantastic foil for Powell’s endearingly rugged, masculine charm. Somewhere between these two extremes lies Anthony Ramos’ morally complex Javi, a tech entrepreneur whose genuinely good intentions have been corrupted by the merciless realities of capitalistic exploitation; his gradual redemption arc is the film’s most compelling, cathartic thread.

The true MVP, though, is Daisy Edgar-Jones. As protagonist Kate, she carries a tremendous burden; the conflict revolves entirely around her character’s insecurities, anxieties, and survivor’s guilt—and she absolutely delivers, conveying both vulnerability and perseverance through the subtlest gestures and glances. Her work is nuanced, emotionally honest, and thoroughly captivating.

And that is what makes Twisters an old school Hollywood blockbuster of the highest caliber: it never loses sight of the humanity amidst the spectacle. If you’ll pardon the (unerringly accurate) cliché: they just don’t make ‘em like this anymore—visually stunning, consistently thrilling, and irresistibly sexy.