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The unexpected twist in “Twisters”: A kiss that never was
A stormy success at the box office
“Twisters” has taken the domestic box office by storm, raking in a colossal $80.5 million in its opening weekend. The film, a standalone sequel to the 1996 classic “Twister,” has captivated audiences with its thrilling storm-chasing narrative and stellar cast, including Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell. However, one of the most talked-about aspects of the film on social media is something that didn’t make it into the final cut—a passionate kiss between the lead characters.
The kiss that never happened
In the days leading up to the release of “Twisters,” set footage of Edgar-Jones and Powell sharing a climactic kiss went viral, sparking excitement among fans. Yet, when the movie hit theaters, viewers were left puzzled and somewhat disappointed by the absence of this anticipated moment.
“I think it’s a Spielberg note, wasn’t it?” Edgar-Jones revealed in an interview with Collider. Executive producer Steven Spielberg, known for his keen storytelling instincts, decided to omit the kiss. “I think it stops the film feeling too clichéd, actually. I think there’s something really wonderful about it feeling like there’s a continuation. This isn’t the end of their story. They’re united by their shared passion for something.”
Powell echoed this sentiment, adding, “I also think that this movie is not about them finding love. It’s returning Kate to the thing that she loves, which is storm chasing. So that’s what you have at the end of the movie. They share this thing, and her passion is reinvigorated, and her sense of home is reinvigorated.”
Spielberg’s touch: A masterstroke or a missed opportunity?
Spielberg’s decision to cut the kiss has sparked a debate among fans and critics alike. Some argue that the omission adds depth to the characters and avoids the cliché of a romantic resolution. Others feel that the kiss would have provided a satisfying emotional payoff. Powell concluded, “I feel like a kiss would be sort of unrepresentative of the right goal at the end of the movie. And it is a good Spielberg note. It’s why that kid is still in this game. It’s amazing.”
The legacy of “Twister” and the new generation
“Twisters” is directed by Lee Isaac Chung, an Oscar nominee for “Minari,” and produced under Spielberg’s Amblin production banner, which also produced the original “Twister.” Unlike its predecessor, “Twisters” does not feature any of the original characters but is set in the same universe, offering a fresh yet familiar experience for fans of the original film.
The new film stars Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea, Maura Tierney, and Sasha Lane, alongside Edgar-Jones and Powell. The ensemble cast delivers compelling performances that drive the narrative forward, even without the anticipated romantic subplot.
A global phenomenon
In addition to its domestic success, “Twisters” has made a significant impact internationally, grossing $27.1 million from 76 foreign territories over the weekend. This brings the film’s global earnings to an impressive $123.2 million to date. The movie’s universal appeal lies in its thrilling action sequences, emotional depth, and the timeless allure of storm chasing.
Reflecting on the journey
As “Twisters” continues to dominate the box office, it invites viewers to reflect on the nature of storytelling and the choices that shape a film’s narrative. Spielberg’s decision to cut the kiss may have left some fans wanting more, but it also underscores the film’s core message: the pursuit of passion and the bonds forged through shared experiences.
For those eager to dive deeper into the world of “Twisters,” you can watch the trailer and explore more about the film here.
“Twisters” is now playing in theaters nationwide, offering a thrilling cinematic experience that leaves audiences pondering the paths not taken and the stories yet to be told.
