Twisted Metal: A Nostalgic, Gritty, and Comical Joyride

Twisted Metal is a gritty, post-apocalyptic spin on a popular classic Playstation title with a comical tone and a touch of nostalgia. From the very start to the end of the first 10 episodes, the show was sure to include and closely follow elements of the game. A decision that’s sure to satisfy Twisted Metal fans.

The story skillfully immerses us in the era of the Twisted Metal games, giving us a strong sense of nostalgia through its incorporation of iconic establishments and elements from the 1990s. Following the adventures of the main character, John Doe (Anthony Mackie), we get to see how things have shaped up in a post-apocalyptic world in Twisted Metal. Just about everything you can imagine that would happen in a chaotic uncivilized society is displayed throughout these first 10 episodes with an ending that leaves us wanting to know more.

John Doe

Once again, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier star Anthony Mackie demonstrates the remarkable range of his acting abilities with his portrayal of John Doe or the “milkman”. He’s tasked with making deliveries between each of the walled cities with the danger of his cargo getting stolen during transfer and him getting killed. He then gets challenged to make one of the most dangerous deliveries he’s ever done with the promise of a reward he strongly desires if he completes the delivery within the timeframe.

A major problem with this delivery is that it’s on the other side of the continent. He accepts the mission but suffers several “roadblocks” along the way. He also picks up a passenger along the way. One who has a major influence on his way of life.

Sweet Tooth

The decision to cast Will Arnett and Samoa Joe as Sweet Tooth was brilliant. Their performances do well to give Sweet Tooth a menacing, unhinged, and chilling identity that lingers throughout the show.

Just about every one of the supporting cast was a joy to watch. Each brings their talent and flare to the show, adding depth to the narrative and some tugging on our heartstrings along the way.

The car combat is very creative and captures the essence of Twisted Metal. I like how the show has the right amount of car combat. It was perfectly balanced and not overly done.

Lastly, there’s no shortage of comedy in this show. Even Sweet Tooth provides a comical performance while maintaining his menacing identity.

Impression

Overall, I think the show is an enjoyable show to watch. The actors played their characters well. Plenty of elements from the games were incorporated into the show. The mission to deliver the package within a certain time limit adds a sense of urgency and sends you on an emotional rollercoaster due to the challenges faced during the journey.

But don’t think that is all comical. The show does have moments where it slows down and gets personal and touchy. Some of these moments may kinda hit you in the feels. On the flip side to that, there’s also quite a bit of blood, gore, skull bashing, and things of that nature. Can’t end this post without mentioning that.

Twisted Metal is streaming on Peacock. A subscription plan of $5.99 will allow you to gain access to the show.