Twisters’ Director Rejects Climate Agenda, Focuses on Entertainment

Lee Isaac Chung, director of the new blockbuster “Twisters,” has responded to criticism for not incorporating a climate change message into the film. In a recent interview with CNN, Chung emphasized that his goal was to entertain audiences without pushing a specific agenda.

“I just wanted to make sure that with the movie, we don’t ever feel like (it) is putting forward any message,” Chung explained. “I just don’t feel like films are meant to be message-oriented.” The film, a sequel to the 1996 classic “Twister,” continues the story of storm chasers but avoids direct commentary on climate change.

Chung acknowledged a scene in the movie where a farmer talks about the increasing frequency of storms and floods, but he stressed that this was not meant to serve as a political 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 said. “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.”

The director’s stance has been met with criticism from some media commentators. Charles Pulliam-Moore from The Verge argued that given the scientific consensus on climate change’s role in increasing tornado activity, “Twisters” missed an opportunity to address this issue. James Hibberd of The Hollywood Reporter echoed this sentiment, suggesting that even a brief acknowledgment of climate data could have been included.

Star of the film, Glen Powell, also weighed in, supporting Chung’s approach. Speaking to The Telegraph, Powell said, “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?’” He added that while climate change is an important topic, the film is primarily about human resilience in the face of natural disasters.

In recent years, there has been a push from progressive groups for Hollywood to embed climate change messages in entertainment. A study suggested that movies and TV shows should include at least one line about climate change to reflect its reality. However, Chung has chosen to focus on creating a gripping and enjoyable film without embedding a political message.

By prioritizing entertainment over advocacy, “Twisters” aims to capture the spirit of the original while allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions about the world’s changing climate.

Previous articleTrump Pledges To Secure Reporter’s Release From Russia Without Compensation
Next articleGOP Leaders Demand Biden Resign After Dropping Out Of 2024 Race