As a huge fan of disaster movies, Twister (1996) holds a special place as a nostalgic favorite. Its 90s charm and comforting, albeit cheesy, vibe made it a go-to film. Naturally, there was considerable excitement for Twisters (2024), with trailers promising a worthy successor. However, after watching it, comparisons to the original are inevitable, and unfortunately, disappointment creeps in. Twisters isn’t a terrible film; it simply lacks the distinctive spark of its predecessor.
Jan de Bont’s direction in Twister ’96 was captivating, characterized by expansive aerial shots and grounded practical action, effectively utilizing the then-emerging CGI technology. The cast was also remarkable, featuring talents like Philip Seymour Hoffman and Cary Elwes. In contrast, Twisters sometimes feels like an uninspired imitation of the original’s characters – less engaging and somewhat bland. Daisy Edgar-Jones delivers a commendable performance, and her chemistry with Glen Powell is decent, though it doesn’t quite reach the memorable dynamic between Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt.
One of the standout elements of the original Twister was Mark Mancina’s powerful action score, a highlight of 90s cinema. Hopes for even a nod to this iconic music in the new film were dashed, replaced by a generic score from Benjamin Wallfisch. On a brighter note, the country soundtrack in Twisters is a definite plus.
What are the positives of Twisters? The set pieces are undeniably impressive, particularly the rodeo scene and the town-based finale. The visual effects are stunning, providing several spectacular moments. For those who haven’t experienced the original Twister or aren’t particularly attached to it, this new installment might be more enjoyable.
