Twisters (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The year 2024 has brought a whirlwind of cinematic surprises, with Twisters standing out as one of the most anticipated blockbusters of the summer. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung, this legacy sequel to the 1996 classic Twister revives the thrill of chasing nature’s most dangerous phenomena. With an engaging plot, impressive special effects, and a cast that delivers compelling performances, Twisters is a movie that both honors its predecessor and carves out its own place in the disaster genre.
A Legacy Sequel That Spins Its Own Tale
In Twisters, we follow the story of Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), a brilliant scientist from Oklahoma who is both fascinated by and terrified of tornadoes. The film opens with a heart-wrenching scene where a tornado-chasing expedition led by Kate goes tragically wrong, resulting in the loss of two of her closest friends. This traumatic event sets the tone for the movie, as Kate, now a scarred New York-based scientist, is drawn back to her hometown by circumstances that force her to confront her past.
Enter Tyler (Glen Powell), a charismatic “tornado wrangler” and YouTube sensation who leads a team of thrill-seeking storm chasers. The dynamic between Kate and Tyler provides the film with its emotional core, as their initially antagonistic relationship evolves into a partnership fueled by mutual respect and, eventually, romance.
A Cast That Elevates the Film
Glen Powell shines as Tyler, bringing a mix of charm, bravado, and depth to his role. His performance is a standout, offering a perfect foil to Daisy Edgar-Jones’ more restrained and introspective Kate. Edgar-Jones, known for her roles in Normal People and Where the Crawdads Sing, brings a quiet intensity to the film, though some may argue that her subdued approach occasionally slows down the movie’s momentum.
Anthony Ramos, as Javi, Kate’s old friend and a fellow storm enthusiast, adds another layer of complexity to the story. His character’s unrequited feelings for Kate and his involvement in a morally questionable real estate venture bring a sense of tension and unpredictability to the plot.
Spectacular Visuals and Set Pieces
Twisters delivers on the promise of heart-pounding action and jaw-dropping visuals. The film’s tornado sequences are both thrilling and terrifying, with one particularly memorable scene set in a movie theater that is as meta as it is visually stunning. This sequence, where a tornado tears through the screen and places the audience in the midst of the storm, is a clear nod to the original Twister and serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to immerse and overwhelm.
Lee Isaac Chung, who previously directed the critically acclaimed Minari, proves himself adept at handling the grand scale of a blockbuster while maintaining the intimate, character-driven moments that made his earlier work so compelling. His attention to detail, especially in capturing the vastness and beauty of America’s heartland, adds an authentic backdrop to the film’s more fantastical elements.
Where to Watch Twisters Online
For those eager to watch Twisters from the comfort of their home, there are several streaming options available:
1. Available Streaming Services:
- Hulu: Twisters is available for streaming on Hulu, where it is part of the platform’s extensive movie library. Subscribers can enjoy the film as part of their existing package.
- HBO Max: As a major summer release, Twisters is also streaming on HBO Max, offering viewers high-definition viewing and the option to download for offline viewing.
2. Rental/Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: For those who prefer to rent or buy, Twisters can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. The platform offers the film in various formats, including HD and 4K UHD.
- Apple TV: Another option for renting or purchasing Twisters is Apple TV, where the movie is available with additional bonus features, such as behind-the-scenes content and director commentary.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Twisters is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, making it accessible to Android users and those who prefer the Google ecosystem.
A Film That Balances Thrills and Heart
While Twisters is undeniably a disaster movie at its core, it is also a film with heart. The script, penned by Mark L. Smith from a story by Joseph Kosinski, weaves together themes of trauma, redemption, and the human desire to control the uncontrollable. The film’s exploration of the ethical implications of weather manipulation adds a layer of depth to the otherwise straightforward plot, prompting viewers to consider the broader impact of our actions on the environment.
The romance between Kate and Tyler, though somewhat predictable, is handled with a light touch, allowing the chemistry between the leads to shine without overshadowing the film’s larger themes. The decision to leave the film’s ending somewhat open-ended, without a traditional Hollywood kiss, may frustrate some viewers, but it ultimately feels true to the characters and the story’s tone.
Conclusion: A Worthy Successor to a Classic
Twisters may not entirely escape the shadow of its predecessor, but it does an admirable job of building on the foundation laid by the 1996 original. With its engaging characters, spectacular visuals, and a story that balances thrills with emotional depth, Twisters is a summer blockbuster that delivers on its promises.
Whether you’re a fan of the original Twister or new to the franchise, Twisters is a film that is sure to entertain and provoke thought in equal measure. And with multiple options for streaming and rental, it’s easier than ever to catch this cinematic storm from the comfort of your own home.
