‘Twisters’ Director Explains Why Glen Powell’s Kiss Scene Was Cut From Final Version

The much-anticipated sequel to the original 1996 ‘Twister’ movie, ‘Twisters’, hit theatres, stirring up audience expectations. Set against the backdrop of tornado threats, the rom-com dives deep into new storylines and character dynamics, blending nostalgia with fresh narratives.

In a recent interview, director Lee Isaac Chung discussed why he chose to exclude a kiss scene between Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones from the final cut. Glen plays Tyler Owens and Daisy portrays Kate Cooper. As their relationship evolves, they are supposed to share a kiss by the end of the movie’s end.

Also Read: Bill Paxton’s Son James Makes Cameo in ‘Twisters’

However, the director opted for a different conclusion. Originally, Tyler was to kiss Kate after running through an airport to find her. Explaining his decision to cut the scene, Chung told Entertainment Weekly, “I feel like audiences are in a different place now in terms of wanting a kiss or not wanting a kiss. I actually tried the kiss, and it was very polarising — and it’s not because of their performance of the kiss.”

Chung added, “This [no-kiss shot] was the other option that I had filmed on the day, and I got to say, ‘I like it better. I think it’s a better ending.’” The ‘Hit Man’ actor, Glen Powell, joked that he was “taking a little offence” at his kiss scene being cut. He humorously suggested that his abilities might have turned off Chung, leading to the scene’s exclusion. 

The director further explained the ending, which featured Tyler and Kate running and chasing the storm. Chung said, “If it ends with the kiss, then it makes it seem as though that’s what Kate’s journey was all about — to end up with a kiss. But instead, it’s better that it ends with her being able to continue doing what she’s doing with a smile on her face.”

The decision to exclude the kiss scene highlights a shift in audience preferences and underscores the film’s deeper narrative focus. By prioritising Kate’s journey and her passion for storm chasing over a traditional romantic ending, ‘Twisters’ delivers a more nuanced and empowering message. 

-Sushmita Sarkar