Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
British samurai-Western mashup features bloody violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Tornado
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In 18th century Britain, Fujin (Takehiro Hira), a Japanese showman, and his daughter, TORNADO (Koki), come under threat from bandits in pursuit of their missing loot.
Is It Any Good?
Mixing a samurai revenge flick, a Western, and a British gangster movie could and should be a recipe for thrills and fun. Unfortunately, Tornado is a joyless drama due to flat, serious, and lifeless performances. Japanese actors Hira and Koki are dynamic but the British cast—which includes Tim Roth and Jack Lowden—are all so low energy and solemn it's impossible for the action or drama to ignite. The ingredients are all there, but it fails to come together, making Tornado a slow, drab plod through the drizzly British countryside instead of the stylish samurai showdown it hopes to be.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Tornado. Did the violent scenes help tell the story in an effective way? Was it shocking, or thrilling? Why? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Discuss the character of Tornado. What character strengths did she display? Would you describe her as "good" or "bad," or is it not as simple as that?
Talk about the strong language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie? Is a certain level of language expected in a film like this?
Movie Details
- In theaters : May 30, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : July 1, 2025
- Cast : Tim Roth , Koki , Jack Lowden
- Director : John Maclean
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Asian Movie Actor(s) , Japanese Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : IFC Films
- Genre : Thriller
- Topics : History
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong violence, and language
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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