Twisters 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review
Score: 86
from 9 reviewers
Review Date:
Twisters 4K captivates with impressive AV quality, thrilling action, and solid performances, making it a high-recommended spectacle for cinematic fun.
Disc Release Date
True 4K
HDR10
Dolby Vision
Dolby Atmos
Dolby TrueHD
Video: 95
Twisters' 4K UHD Blu-Ray release, shot on a mix of 35mm film and digital using Arri Alexa and Panavision cameras, delivers an excellent Dolby Vision transfer with a natural grain structure, muted yet atmospheric color palette, and deep inky blacks, balancing practical effects and CGI for an impressive visual experience.
Audio: 91
Twisters’ Dolby Atmos mix delivers an immersive and dynamic experience with its expansive use of audio objects and rich surround involvement, though some critiques note that it lacks the bold energy expected from visual scale. Dialogue is clear amidst action, while effects like thunder and hail offer a visceral impact, making it a thrilling sonic ride.
Extra: 71
Twisters' 4K UHD Blu-ray extras deliver an impressive lineup, led by a detailed director's commentary from Lee Isaac Chung and enriched by featurettes exploring practical effects, cast experiences, and storm-chasing tech, offering a compelling behind-the-scenes glimpse despite some lighter elements.
Movie: 68
Twisters elevates itself beyond a typical sequel with strong character development, impressive effects, and a vibrant cast, delivering a thrilling, albeit familiar, storm-chasing adventure that balances nostalgia with modern storytelling. Though it mirrors its predecessor's narrative beats, it captivates with engaging performances and spectacular CGI, ensuring a fun and exhilarating ride through tornado-filled chaos.
Video: 95
The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "Twisters" offers a formidable video presentation that effectively marries its practical and digital elements. Filmed on a blend of 35mm and digital using Arri Alexa and Panavision cameras, the transfer maintains an impressive native 4K resolution of 3840x2160p. The film retains a naturally cinematic feel with a carefully handled grain structure that enhances its gritty authenticity. This medium-scale blockbuster benefits from an excellent use of HEVC (H.265) encoding, providing crystal-clear imagery that captures every intricate detail of storm-ravaged landscapes. Throughout, the Dolby Vision HDR brings depth and richness to the film, rendering dark, earthy tones and deep black levels with clarity. Although the color palette leans towards restrained, earthy shades, occasional vibrant elements, like flares and industrial fires, inject splashes of vividness into the visual narrative.
The video quality demonstrates remarkable attention to detail, whether in the close-ups or the mid-range shots depicting towns devastated by storms. Detailed textures are visible across facial features, vehicles, and environments with no loss of focus. Aided by Dolby Vision, colors are reproduced with impressive accuracy and vibrancy when the situation allows, notably during scenes at the rodeo and other moments featuring primary hues. Despite having some digitized elements via CGI, the overall picture remains sharp and cohesive, seamlessly blending these aspects with practical effects for stunning visual results. Black levels are consistently deep and ensure night scenes are rich with detail without compromising visibility. Any mild artifacting observed is rare and does not detract significantly from the experience, substantiating this release as a near-perfect demonstration of UHD disc quality.
Audio: 91
The Dolby Atmos track on the 4K UHD release of "Twisters" is tailored to maximize the cinematic experience of nature's fury, offering a detailed and immersive auditory landscape. The sound design, integral to the film’s storytelling, precisely places audio objects around the listener to create a realistic storm environment. This track excels in delivering an engulfing surround experience that simulates the visceral presence of a twister, with the wind, rain, hail, and debris dynamically swirling through every channel. While the foundational bass underscores the raw power of each tornado, moving realistically across the sound field, it effectively maintains the clarity of dialogue amidst the chaos.
The use of atmospheric height audio in the mix enhances this immersion, particularly effective during storm sequences. Despite some criticism of a potentially subdued upper audio range that might limit the forceful impact matching visual spectacles, the track remains largely commendable. The auditory representation of destructive force captures a palpable energy, intensified by sound effects like roaring thunder and screeching winds. Background score and musical elements further contribute by providing significant depth and continuity to scenes without overwhelming clarity.
In sum, while some listeners may observe occasional restraint compared to prior releases in terms of dynamic range and energy, this mix leverages its assets skillfully. The result is an audacious and enveloping experience appropriate for showcasing surround system capabilities. Even seemingly secondary effects—like objects rushing past or distant fireworks—are cleverly crafted, offering an engaging auditory journey through mother nature's most turbulent phenomena.
Extras: 71
The 4K UHD Blu-ray edition of "Twisters" is rich with engaging extras, providing viewers with a comprehensive exploration of the film's production and artistry. The standout feature is the Director's Commentary by Lee Isaac Chung, offering valuable insights into the film's casting, location choices, and visual effects. The deleted scenes provide additional context, while the gag reel adds a lighthearted touch. Several featurettes dive deeper into the filmmaking process, including the blend of practical and visual effects, storm-chasing adventures, and character development, often highlighting the technical and scientific aspects that underpin the narrative. These extras enhance the viewing experience by offering both entertaining and insightful content that caters to fans and those interested in film production alike.
Extras included in this disc:
- Gag Reel: A collection of humorous outtakes and line flubs.
- Deleted Scenes: Additional scenes providing further context to the story.
- Tracking the Fronts: The Path of Twisters: Delve into the film's inception, character creation, and on-set challenges.
- Into the Eye of the Storm: Explore the synergy of practical and visual effects in creating thrilling storm sequences.
- Glen Powell: All Access: A glimpse into Glen Powell’s daily life on set.
- Front Seat to a Chase: Experience the thrill with cast and storm chasers tracking tornados.
- Voice of a Villain: Discover the intricate sound engineering behind the tornado roars.
- Tricked-Out Trucks: Insight into the custom vehicles and their advanced features.
- Feature Commentary with Director Lee Isaac Chung: In-depth commentary exploring various filmmaking aspects.
Movie: 68
"Twisters" is a spirited sequel to the 1996 classic "Twister," expertly directed by Lee Isaac Chung. This installment cleverly enriches the fervor of storm chasing through advanced visual storytelling while retaining the original's engaging tension. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell headline the film as storm chasers Kate and Tyler, inventively reviving themes of adventure and camaraderie. The performances, notably Edgar-Jones’s nuanced portrayal of determination and vulnerability, drive the narrative forward. With a notable focus on character development, especially in Edgar-Jones’s lead role, the film explores complex emotional landscapes amid the chaotic phenomena.
Technically, "Twisters" stands out with its exceptional visual effects, utilizing state-of-the-art CGI that vividly captures the tumultuous essence of tornadoes. Shot using a blend of film and digital technology, it presents a gorgeous 4K UHD format that highlights sprawling Oklahoma landscapes and dynamically detailed tornado sequences. Each storm sequence intensifies with dramatic visuals, pushing the envelope of disaster portrayal. However, some of the CGI moments occasionally feel disconnected during high-speed sequences—a minor glitch in an otherwise arresting visual experience.
Despite its adherence to familiar plot structures, "Twisters" thrives with its exhilarating pacing and upgraded technical nuances. It successfully invokes nostalgia without leaning too heavily on its predecessor, striking a balance between homage and fresh storytelling. The film deftly navigates between moments of thrill and introspection, offering an affable mixture for both seasoned fans and new audiences. While it may tread some of the same thematic ground as its forebear, the narrative's modern take provides ample excitement and heart-pounding entertainment, making "Twisters" a captivating cinematic experience.
Total: 86
"Twisters," the 4K UHD Blu-ray release, successfully captures the essence of a classic summer blockbuster. Directed by Lee Isaac Chung, the film takes audiences on a captivating whirlwind of thrilling action, punctuated by impressive CGI effects and immersive Dolby Atmos audio. The cast, led by Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell, enriches the narrative with engaging performances and relatability, allowing viewers to invest in their struggles and triumphs. While it doesn't break new storytelling ground, "Twisters" offers a satisfying spectacle that stands as a worthy pseudo-sequel, adding its unique flair while appealing to fans of the disaster genre.
The technical specifications of this release make it a standout offering, with a 2.39:1 AVC image aspect ratio that impressively translates the film's dynamic visuals onto home screens. The disc includes a robust Atmos audio mix that enhances the viewing experience, providing an enveloping ambiance crucial for such an action-packed film. The additional features, including a feature-length commentary and insightful behind-the-scenes content, offer added layers for fans who wish to dive deeper into the making of the film.
Ultimately, "Twisters" does not attempt to reinvent the wheel but excels within its genre parameters by delivering what audiences crave: excitement and entertainment. The Blu-ray edition is a stellar package that exemplifies stunning audiovisuals and substantial extras, making it highly recommended for both hardcore fans and newcomers to the franchise. Whether you're revisiting this stormy tale or embarking on it for the first time, the experience is worth the investment, providing both an escape and a showcase opportunity for your home theater capabilities.
avforums review by Casimir HarlowRead review here
Video: 90
Detail is excellent, revelling in the finer textures and nuances of the storm-ravaged landscape, the weathered trucks, the torn-up towns, whilst WCG and HDR bring warmth and depth to the tones on offer...
Audio: 90
The score by Benjamin Wallfisch (Blade Runner 2049, Alien: Romulus) is a solid affair, driving action, and maintaining tension, whilst effects coverage is sublime - exactly what you would hope for - drawing...
Extras: 70
Twisters enjoys an excellent roster of extra features too, headlined by a Director's Commentary but ticking all the boxes of additional footage, and Powell-centric Interviews and Featurettes....
Movie: 70
The complete antithesis of wheel reinvention, Twisters is precious more than a consonant beyond its original '96 progenitor, swapping out some of the goofy charm and effects for a slightly more polished,...
Total: 80
a does-what-it-says-on-the-can summer blockbuster romp Warner's 4K release of Twisters is very impressive, with great AV affording a largely demo experience on the audio and visual front, and a strong...
AV Nirvana review by Michael ScottRead review here
Video: 100
Black levels are really great, with some impressive interior shots (such as inside the theater where every one is hunkering down and praying for a miracle at the end) and really amazing close up shots...
Audio: 90
• FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH DIRECTOR LEE ISAAC CHUNG • GAG REEL • DELETED SCENES • TRACKING THE FRONTS: THE PATH OF TWISTERS – Trace the trajectory of TWISTERS from its earliest inception to production and...
Extras: 80
Movie: 80
Not really a sequel, and not really a remake, Twisters lives in the same universe as 1996’s Twister , but only really references a couple of things from the original film, instead deciding to stake their...
Total: 90
It’s got CGI effects out the ears, and it manages to bypass all of the online controversy that seems to plague modern day films....
Blu-ray.com review by Justin DekkerRead review here
Video: 100
Given the busy and stormy nature of much of the film, such moments are obviously rare, but when they arise, it's a treat that the film gives the viewers a chance to catch their breath with the primary...
Audio: 100
If, as one character shares during the course of the film, tornados are rated in terms of their destructiveness, then it is only fair to rate Twisters 4K's Dolby Atmos track on how well it handles that...
Extras: 80
Into the Eye of the Storm (24.07) - With input from cast and crew, this feature provides a look at the mix of practical and visual effects to create the storm scenes in the film, filming stunts, and various...
Movie: 70
Daisy Edgar-Jones is excellent in her portrayal of Kate, being able to convey a tricky mix of strength and vulnerability, hope and hopelessness, and all points on the spectrum in between....
Total: 80
Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and the effects team (along with some gorgeous cinematography) enable the film to succeed on its own merits, and it should stand up to repeat viewings just as easily as...
Blu-ray Authority review by Matt Brighton and Matt MaloufRead review here
Video: 90
For every movie that’s got crystal blue skies, this one serves as their antithesis with dark, brooding clouds and giving us....
Audio: 100
Let’s face it, I can prattle on about how good this sounds or just know that when watching this one – it’s worth its weight in gold....
Extras: 70
Gag Reel Deleted Scenes Tracking the Fronts: The Path of Twisters – Trace the trajectory of the film from its earliest inception to production and get to know the cast as they lead this look into creating...
Movie: 0
Still, I suppose there’s enough here to attract a newer audience, maybe even many of whom weren’t born yet or were too young to remember the original film....
Total: 70
While Twisters certainly hits the right notes, I found myself longing for Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton....
DoBlu review by Matt PaprockiRead review here
Video: 80
Close-ups produce the texture expected from a modern studio film, and the wide shots of destroyed towns draw out definition too....
Audio: 60
It’s not a matter of wanting pure loudness so much as wanting the power to match the visual scale; Twisters’ Atmos mix doesn’t do that....
Extras: 60
On the UHD, Universal includes deleted scenes, a gag reel, a 14-minute making of, a few short featurettes (the usual stuff, including a piece on Powell, the effects, etc.), and a full commentary from director...
Movie: 80
By focusing on the human elements rather than the atmospheric ones, Twisters softly exposes the way shrewd and moral-less people take advantage of people’s trauma, and diverts from mocking the YouTube...
Total: 70
A stellar sequel, Twisters brings a human element to the science and action to make for a satisfying watch....
High-Def DigestRead review here
Video: 100
A lot of effort was used to combine practical effects with digital counterparts so a lot of the time the big wow moments have true weight to them....
Audio: 100
Dialog isn’t lost, but like any disaster movie, we’re not here for the quality of the flowery speeches, we want to enjoy the chaos on screen rattling our walls, ceilings, and floorboards!...
Extras: 60
You get a great director’s commentary track, some fun gag reels, some deleted scenes, and plenty of featurettes to gnaw through once the main feature is done....
Movie: 60
It’s easier to play it safe, do a version of the same thing again, shell out a gargantuan amount of cash, and hope audiences go for it....
Total: 80
Twisters has its own wildly entertaining fun to have on the big screen letting it stand alongside the original without feeling like a complete repeat....
Home Theater Forum review by Timothy ERead review here
Video: 100
Twisters appears on 4K disc in its original 2.35:1 screen aspect ratio via the HEVC codec....
Audio: 80
The Atmos audio is anemic in the sense that you will want to turn your volume up to 11 to have the dialogue be audible, but the plus side is that the roar of mother nature will be overwhelming and immersive...
Extras: 80
Movie: 60
Total: 60
Twisters brings to mind the idea that sometimes the sum of the parts is much greater than the whole; I feel that way while watching Twisters because many extremely talented people behind the cameras and...
AVSForum review by Ralph PottsRead review here
Video: 96
Close ups are noticeably refined, and, revealing of the subtlest details within facial features and objects within the frame....
Audio: 100
In listening to the Dolby Atmos surround mix I found its use of audio objects placed in the height speakers to be a mix of atmospherics, discrete effects, and music accompaniment....
Extras: 70
Disc 1: Twisters Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc 2: Twisters Blu-ray GAG REEL DELETED SCENES TRACKING THE FRONTS: THE PATH OF TWISTERS - Trace the trajectory of TWISTERS from its earliest inception to production...
Movie: 60
Lured back to the field by her friend Javi (Anthony Ramos) and a once-in-a-lifetime scientific opportunity, Kate crosses paths with Tyler (Glen Powell), a charming daredevil and self-proclaimed tornado...
Total: 82
Ralph Potts AVS Forum Blu-ray Reviews Reference Review System: JVC DLA-NZ7 4K Ultra High-Definition Laser Front Projector (Calibrated with Calman color calibration software and Portrait Displays C6 HDR2000...
Why So Blu?Read review here
Video: 100
Black Levels: Dark scenes always look clear and defined with shadow detail showing out in wonderful ways too....
Audio: 100
Fully immersive, loud and in-your-face, the film sounds just as it should and that’s beyond a good thing....
Extras: 70
Included with the bundled Blu-ray, digital code and matte slipcover, you get a 4K disc that has excellent bonus features!GAG REELDELETED SCENESTRACKING THE FRONTS: THE PATH OF TWISTERS – Trace the trajectory...
Movie: 70
Launching the familiar “Dorothy” simulator with the data collecting sensors, as well as a chemical powder into the funnel the team can find ways to make the storms less impactful and continue to find ways...
Total: 70
The loud country soundtrack will either annoy or allure you, and the missed opportunities can seem overt, but the film is still worth a watch and definitely an own if you love a demo-worthy disc!...
Director: Lee Isaac Chung
Actors: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos
PlotIn a small Midwestern town notorious for its ferocious tornadoes, climatologist Emma is studying extreme weather patterns. She partners with daring storm chaser Will, who has personal reasons for confronting these deadly twisters. Their research leads them to a breakthrough: a series of rapidly intensifying storms with unprecedented power is forming. As they track these new storm systems, they realize that the consequences could be catastrophic for the entire region. Emma's focus on the scientific aspects of the storms clashes with Will's more adrenaline-fueled approach, creating tension but also fostering mutual respect and determination to save lives.
Meanwhile, local mechanic and amateur meteorologist Carlos, driven by a past tragedy involving tornadoes, joins their mission, bringing practical insight and sheer willpower. Together, the trio races against time to understand the evolving storms' paths and help evacuate residents. As they delve deeper into the heart of the brewing chaos, their personal stakes in the unfolding disaster become evident. Emma struggles with her scientific objectivity, while Will battles his inner demons, and Carlos confronts old fears. With each destructive storm testing their resilience and dedication, they must learn to trust each other and act decisively to safeguard the townspeople against nature's fury.
Writers: Mark L. Smith, Joseph Kosinski, Michael Crichton
Release Date: 19 Jul 2024
Runtime: 122 min
Rating: PG-13
Country: United States
Language: English