Ride It Out!!!!! Standalone Sequel To 1996 Film Is Intense Thrill Ride With Heart and Valor!!!!!

Review By Brandon Porter

Hold on for your life

Story Description

Kate Cooper (Daisy Edgar Jones) and Mother Nature have not had a solid relationship. After a devastating incident traumatized her and left her unmotivated to continue what she was once passionate about, the former storm-chaser has been relegated to a life away from the elements. When her old friend and colleague Javi (Anthony Ramos) convinces her to return due to increased storm activity in Oklahoma, Kate reluctantly agrees to jump back into the fray. Upon arrival, they realize they aren't the only crew in town braving the elements. A group of internet-famous storm chasers known as Tornado Wranglers, led by Tyler Owens (Glen Powell), are also there for research but seem more concerned with reckless thrills and “going viral” rather than gaining knowledge about the storms. When the surge in storm activity becomes deadlier than anticipated, Kate and Tyler must work together to survive the onslaught of destructive tornadoes that potentially could rip the state of Oklahoma off the face of the map.

Kate, Tyler, and Kate's mother study the patterns of
the storms that are terrorizing Oklahoma.

Film Review

28 years after the 1996 blockbuster, Twisters is the latest high-octane thrill ride that pits a new generation of storm chasers against a packed of wildly unpredictable and violent tornadoes. With bigger stakes and double the storm power, Twisters looks to rock the SMS with some intense wind-filled adrenaline. After watching the film, Twisters respects what came before while adding modern touches that enhance the engagement factors. Often times we talk about what makes a great summer movie. For me, it's that sense of escapism where you can suspend disbelief and just be along for the ride with characters on screen. Twister did that nearly 30 years ago and Twisters follows suit to great effect. Director Lee Issac Chung clearly understands what made his film's predecessors so great not only from a technical perspective but also thematically which easily gets lost in the on-screen chaos. That can only be pulled from by the talented cast on screen which brings us to performances. Our leading lady Daisy Edgar Jones is great in the lead as Kate. Much like Helen Hunt's Jo, Kate is struggling with facing the trauma that not only claimed loved ones but her passion for what she dedicated her life to knowing more about. Her arc is centered on facing her fear and confronting the psychological obstacles that have prevented her from giving her all to what's important. Jones plays this brilliantly displaying a heroine that is vulnerable and nuanced in all the right ways. Not to be outdone, Glen Powell is a bonified showstopper as Tyler Owens. On the surface, he seems like an ego-driven social media star in it for the cheap thrills. However, as the story goes on, you realize he's more than just a thrill seeker with a perfect jawline. He is passionate about helping people in need and isn't afraid to put himself in harm's way for others. Powell's charisma and charm shine from scene to scene and his chemistry with Jones makes for some great character moments for both performers.

Firestorm!!!

Javi, played by Anthony Ramos, is a strong standout in his own right. His arc is about finding out what he's fighting for and who he's really doing the work for. His allegiance and morality are tested as he's forced to make a choice between people and profit. It's a satisfying arc that fleshes out his character very well and Ramos continues to impress with the quality work he is given. The supporting cast of Katy O'Brian, Sasha Lane, Brandon Parea, and Tunde Adebimpe are super fun to watch as Dani, Lily, Boone, and Dexter while David Corenswet delivers as well as despicably unlikeable Scott. Performance from the cast is solid all around, but if you're coming for thrills, best believe Twisters has you covered. Much like the 1996 classic, Twisters has a grounded grit to it that amplifies the danger creating tension that puts the audience on edge. It truly is a thrill ride on screen with the sound mixing truly engulfing you in the beasts of the storms. Another aspect of the film I admire is the doubling down on the reality of what these storms do to people in the sense of the aftermath. While it is briefly touched on in the original, the film makes it clear that the effects of a tornado go beyond just destroyed property. Lives and livelihoods are also lost and it leaves people open to exploitation from those with corrupt hidden intentions. It is a reminder that it is never too dangerous to do the right thing and save lives. Not something you expect to get out of a summer weather film. All in all, Twisters is a fun thrill ride that offers everything you want in a summer blockbuster. It's also a film with a strong message about facing trauma and doing right by the people who need aid. It's remarkable to see a film build on what made the original such an iconic movie and redefine it for a new generation in the best way possible. A movie that proves what one is capable of if you're brave enough to weather the storm.

Rating and Final Thoughts