Lee Isaac Chung, the director of the highly anticipated film “Twisters,” has faced criticism for choosing not to embed a climate change message in the movie. In a recent interview, Chung emphasized that his primary focus was to create an engaging film rather than preach to the audience.
“I just wanted to make sure that with the movie, we don’t ever feel like (it) is putting forward any message,” Chung told CNN. “I just don’t feel like films are meant to be message-oriented.” The film, a sequel to the 1996 hit “Twister,” aims to capture the excitement of storm chasing without delving into political themes.
Although “Twisters” includes a scene where a farmer mentions the increasing frequency of storms and floods, Chung insists that the film is not about making a statement. “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,” he explained. However, he clarified, “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.”
Chung’s decision has sparked backlash from some media outlets. The Verge’s Charles Pulliam-Moore argued that it would have been logical for “Twisters” to incorporate climate change, considering scientific findings about tornado-producing storms becoming more common in a warming world. Similarly, James Hibberd from The Hollywood Reporter suggested that even a subtle reference to changing tornado patterns could have been included without alienating audiences.
Glen Powell, one of the stars of “Twisters,” also defended the film’s approach. In an interview with The Telegraph, he stated, “First and foremost, because if you’re telling people what to think, you’re not allowing them to feel. You can’t put people into that heightened state if they’re thinking, ‘Hmm, do I or do I not agree with this message?’” Powell added that while discussions about climate change are important, the movie’s primary focus is on the human struggle against nature.
Progressive groups have been pushing for Hollywood to include more climate change messages in entertainment. A recent study recommended that movies and TV shows incorporate at least one line about climate change to acknowledge its reality. Despite this pressure, Chung and his team have chosen to keep “Twisters” focused on thrilling audiences without delivering a political lecture.
