Twisted Metal is now streaming on Peacock.
By Greg Wheeler
Watching Peacock’s Twisted Metal TV show offers a bold, unique, and surprising experience. The ten-episode first season is filled with fresh content and moves at an energetic pace. While it draws its central universe from the Sony PlayStation videogame of the same name, the show maintains the spirit of the game while presenting a different storytelling format.
Anthony Mackie and Stephanie Beatriz portray the two protagonists, forced to become unlikely companions on a post-apocalyptic road trip through the Divided States of America. Set two decades after a global electronics disabling incident, the world is in chaos, and cities have walled themselves off, banishing criminals and outlaws.
The story revolves around milkman John Doe (Mackie), an old-fashioned delivery guy who travels with his beloved 2002 Subaru WRX named Evelyn. His life takes a turn when he receives a task from Raven, the COO of New San Francisco, promising him a “home” among the “insiders” and a chance to uncover the truth about his family. On the road, he encounters Quiet (Beatriz), who recently witnessed her brother’s suicide, hoping to give her a chance at life.
The show spans ten days during which Quiet and John must travel to New Chicago to complete Raven’s delivery. Each episode feels like a distinct level of a classic game with increasing difficulty, but the continuous development of the main characters and others like Agent Stone and Sweet Tooth keeps the story engaging.
Season 1 of Twisted Metal introduces viewers to a vibrant new universe, offering a road-trip style plot that transcends its limitations. The creators’ plan to extend the show beyond one season is evident, given the rich array of characters and situations available. The good news is that even if you’re unfamiliar with the game, the show remains accessible and enjoyable with its straightforward and lucid tone.
With each episode clocking in at around half an hour, the pacing remains crisp, and the variety of characters and storylines keeps the audience invested. However, the writing’s predictability is a downside, as many arcs can be identified before they unfold, and some plotlines seem underdeveloped.
Despite this, Twisted Metal is worth watching, as its characters have the potential to become iconic figures in modern discourse and pop culture. The action sequences, featuring explosions and bullet-riddled scenes, are thrilling, complemented by a well-suited soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.
In conclusion, Twisted Metal’s Season 1 is a commendable adaptation designed for casual enjoyment. While it may lack some finesse in its craftsmanship, it meets the standards of contemporary television watching and promises even more potential in future seasons.
I give Twisted Metal a B.
TV and City 