Twisters

Twisters is a disaster film that came out on July 19, 2024. Since I hadn’t seen the first movie that came out in 1996, I didn’t fully know what to expect while starting this film. Twisters is about a girl named Kate Carter, who had a passion for tornados until disaster struck when many of her friends died while helping her chase a tornado. Until, one day when one of her old friends finds her again and brings her back to chase tornados. This film contains layers of emotions, which will have you on the edge of your seat. 

The film starts off with a group of five friends who are chasing a tornado for Kate’s research project of taming a tornado. While they’re chasing the tornado, it surprisingly turns into an EF5, which leads to the death of three of her friends. Years later Kate is living in New York when one of her original friends finds her and brings her back into the business of chasing tornados. Thanks to that, Kate meets people who can help her in her research on taming a tornado. Although hesitant to return to the job of chasing tornadoes, Kate uses her skills and the help of her new friends to tame a tornado successfully.

Twisters is one of my favorite movies to come out this year. The film had a perfect mix of action-packed scenes and emotional scenes. It was very intriguing to see the characters fight against a tornado and go through traumatizing events that made the movie even more interesting. I also enjoyed the tragic backstory of Kate Carter, which allows you to understand the protagonist. As you watch from the perspective of Kate Cart, you will be able to understand the struggles and challenges she faces throughout the movie. With these aspects, Twisters is turned into an easy and fun movie to watch on any occasion. 

Overall, Twisters is a remarkable movie to come out this year. The best parts of this movie were the well-thought-out scenes. With its mix of action and heartbreaking scenes, you will be able to be entertained for the entirety of the film. On top of all that, there is a main character that the audience is able to understand and like. I definitely recommend this movie to anyone. Even if you haven’t seen the original, like me, it will still be a great watch.

-Matthew R.

Twisters is available to check out from the Mission Viejo Library.

The Fall Guy

Similar to his work on the Deadpool films and Bullet Train, David Leitch brings comedic energy and intense action in his new movie, The Fall Guy. Starring Ryan Gosling as Colt Seavers and Emily Blunt as Jody Moreno, this new film brings emotional moments along with “dumb-fun” action sequences.

The Fall Guy is a must-watch for all audiences, whether you are looking for a break from “superhero fatigue” or just want to experience something new.

Spoiler-Free Synopsis from Rotten Tomatoes: He’s a stuntman, and like everyone in the stunt community, he gets blown up, shot, crashed, thrown through windows and dropped from the highest of heights, all for our entertainment. And now, fresh off an almost career-ending accident, this working-class hero has to track down a missing movie star, solve a conspiracy and try to win back the love of his life while still doing his day job. What could possibly go right?

While the standout performances by the main actors Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt are the main draws to watch the film, other characters also shine. Personally, I believe that the character of Dan Tucker, played by Winston Duke, was a clear standout. Duke’s character stole the show whenever he was on screen. His role as Seavers’ “wingman” and reliable partner made him a very likable character. On the opposite side of the spectrum, the film also includes detestable villains. Their unlikability encourages the viewer to root against them, making the ending much more satisfying.

In addition to the stellar score, 2 song choices in particular stand out. The song “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” is included in many scenes in the movie, performed by both KISS and YUNGBLUD. Additionally, I enjoyed the inclusion of Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now) performed by Phil Collins.

A review of this film would not be complete without recognizing the stunt work. The car “cannon roll” included early on in the film has broken the world record for most rolls in a car with 8.5 rolls (previously held by the film Casino Royale with 7 rolls.

There are many other notable stunts, but I believe that those should be watched and not spoiled.

(Image from the right extracted from an article by ign.com)

Overall, the combination of record-breaking stunts, music choice, and characters makes The Fall Guy a must-watch. I highly recommend viewing the movie in theaters before you watch it on streaming services.