The storm-chasing sequel “Twisters” is receiving positive reviews, currently holding an 84 percent “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film, featuring Glen Powell, follows an unprecedented outbreak of violent storms tearing through the American heartland, with characters frequently engaging in meteorological discussions. Despite this, the movie does not reference climate change.
Director Lee Isaac Chung addressed this notable omission in an interview with CNN. He explained that his primary goal was to avoid embedding any specific message within the film. “I just wanted to make sure that with the movie, we don’t ever feel like it is putting forward any message,” Chung stated. “I just don’t feel like films are meant to be message-oriented.”
There is a scene where Maura Tierney’s character, a local farmer, mentions the increasing frequency of storms and floods. Yet, she does not explicitly cite climate change. Chung elaborated on this choice, saying, “I think what we are doing is showing the reality of what’s happening on the ground … we don’t shy away from saying that things are changing. I wanted to make sure that we are never creating a feeling that we’re preaching a message, because that’s certainly not what I think cinema should be about. I think it should be a reflection of the world.”
The original “Twister,” released in 1996, became a landmark in disaster film history. Directed by Jan de Bont and starring Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton, the film centered on storm chasers attempting to deploy a research device into the heart of extremely violent tornadoes. With its groundbreaking special effects and thrilling storyline, “Twister” captivated audiences and became one of the highest-grossing films of that year.
“Twister” was notable for its depiction of the storm-chasing community and its portrayal of the power and unpredictability of tornadoes. The film’s success lay in its combination of cutting-edge CGI technology and a compelling human drama, as the characters navigated their personal relationships amidst the chaos of nature’s fury. The movie also featured an ensemble cast, including Jami Gertz, Cary Elwes, and Philip Seymour Hoffman, adding depth and variety to the narrative.
“Twisters,” the much-anticipated sequel, continues the legacy by introducing a new generation of storm chasers while honoring the spirit of the original. Set against the backdrop of an unprecedented series of storms, the sequel brings new characters and challenges, while still capturing the intense, high-stakes atmosphere that made the first film a classic.
Director Lee Isaac Chung’s decision to steer clear of explicit references to climate change reflects his vision of creating a film that remains neutral and focuses on the immediate, dramatic experiences of its characters. By doing so, Chung aims to craft a story that resonates with a broad audience without delving into potentially divisive topics.
Chung’s approach underscores a desire to create a film that mirrors reality without overtly pushing a specific agenda, allowing viewers to engage with the story on their terms. This decision highlights the director’s commitment to cinematic storytelling that prioritizes entertainment and reflection over delivering a specific message.
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