The semiotic analysis points to the myth of science. Media education question: Is Twisters 2024 a remake of the classic tornado film?
Twisters (2024) was directed by Lee Isaac Chung and premiered on 18 July 2024. The plot centres on a group of scientists who attempt to predict and understand the phenomena of extreme tornadoes, while facing the threats of these destructive forces of nature. Although the film harkens back to the 1996 classic Twister, it is not an exact remake, but a spiritual sequel that develops the themes of the original in the new context of technology and climate change.
Denotative analysis
Denotation is a literal representation of the poster’s content. In the foreground we see three characters (scientists or researchers), anxiously watching an approaching tornado. The characters are in a field, with an all-terrain vehicle alongside them, equipped with scientific equipment, suggesting that they are ready to investigate or respond to a dangerous situation. In the background, the tornado is destroying objects, and the fire and destruction enhance the atmosphere of anxiety and tension. The colours used, especially the dark ones, add drama. At the bottom of the poster is the title Twisters.
Connotative analysis. In search of answer: is Twisters 2024 a remake?
The connotation of this poster clearly carries strong emotions of danger, uncertainty, and excitement. Moreover, the destruction in the background, expressed by fire and swirling debris, gives the tornado a symbolic meaning. Specifically, it represents an uncontrollable, destructive force of nature. In addition, characters looking at tornadoes can connote courage, determination, and a fascination with danger. This fascination, in fact, is often associated with the archetype of the hero-scientist. Furthermore, the off-road vehicle and research equipment emphasize the role of science and technology in attempts to understand or subdue nature. Ultimately, the poster creates tension and invites the viewer to participate in the epic battle between man and nature.
Commutation test
The commutation test allows us to test how changes to individual elements of the poster affect its perception and meaning. Imagine several potential substitutions. E.g. replacing the tornado with another threat, such as a flood. This would completely change the dynamics of the poster, shifting the emphasis from a swirling, dynamic element to a more ‘flat’ threat. Such an image could be less dramatic and less ‘cinematic’. The second experiment is to remove the figures. The poster would become more abstract and the drama would shift more to nature itself. However, the presence of people adds to the dynamics and also gives a human dimension to the threat, which increases the tension.
Another suggestion for change is to replace fire and destruction with a calm background. Removing the visual effect of destruction would reduce the feeling of threat. The presence of flames and destruction enhances the apocalyptic atmosphere. Any of these changes would weaken the emotional tension and drama of the poster. This demonstrates that the creators carefully choose the depicted elements to reinforce the message of the threatening nature and the risks involved.
Is Twisters 2024 a remake? Myth analysis
The Twisters poster refers to the myth of man’s struggle against untamed nature. In line with Barthes’ understanding of myth as an ideological tool, the poster reinforces the narrative of human courage and steadfastness. It highlights our resilience in the face of forces we cannot completely control. The characters are explicitly portrayed as scientists, which, in the context of myth, can symbolise a belief in science as the only weapon against the dangerous forces of nature. The tornado is an archetypal symbol of chaos and unpredictability. Its destructive power inspires awe and fear, which is evident in the faces of the characters.
A remake is a new version of an existing work, such as a film, TV series, game, or piece of music. In a remake, the original plot, characters, or concepts are adapted and refreshed for a modern audience. A remake retains the main elements of the original, but often makes stylistic, technological or plot changes to give it a new context or aesthetic. So, is Twisters 2024 a remake? The answer is not clear-cut. The poster suggests that we are dealing with a film that refers to the original. However, it presents the subject matter in a new light, focusing on contemporary challenges such as climate change.