Tornado (2025): Cast, Plot, Release Date & All About the Unique Samurai Western

Tornado (2025) – A Samurai Western Like No Other

Prepare to be swept away by a whirlwind of drama, swordplay, and grit in Tornado, the bold new period action drama from director John Maclean (Slow West). Set against the bleak yet beautiful backdrop of 18th-century Britain, Tornado blends samurai cinema with western-style storytelling, crafting a genre-defying tale of survival and vengeance. With a powerful cast led by Kōki, Jack Lowden, Takehiro Hira, and Tim Roth, the film promises to be one of 2025’s most unique cinematic experiences.

🌀 The Story: Where East Meets West

Set in 1790, Tornado follows a traveling samurai performance troupe making their way through Britain when they collide with a gang of violent thieves. But the criminals underestimate Tornado, one of the performers — a young woman with a sharp blade and even sharper instincts. As the troupe is thrust into chaos, Tornado hatches a plan to turn the tables on the outlaws, setting the stage for a thrilling, stylish showdown.

At its heart, the film is a survival tale — a fusion of Eastern philosophy and Western rebellion, with one woman standing at the eye of the storm.

⚔️ A Cast That Cuts Deep

• Kōki shines in the title role as Tornado, bringing intensity, elegance, and quiet fury to a character caught between art and violence.

• Jack Lowden portrays Little Sugar, a character as enigmatic as his name is ironic.

• Takehiro Hira plays Fujin, Tornado’s father, a samurai master with a haunting past.

• Tim Roth commands the screen as Sugarman, the film’s unpredictable antagonist.

• Joanne Whalley adds gravitas in a supporting role, rounding out the ensemble with dramatic weight.

🎬 Behind the Scenes: A Beautiful Storm

Directed and written by John Maclean, Tornado is a visual and tonal triumph. Shot by celebrated cinematographer Robbie Ryan, the film combines sweeping landscapes with intense, close-quarters combat. The score by Jed Kurzel (The Babadook, Assassin’s Creed) heightens the tension with every unsheathing of a sword.

The editing team — Ryan Morrison and Selina Macarthur — keep the story lean and tightly paced, making the 91-minute runtime feel like a breathless sprint through foggy moors and muddy roads.

📍 Release Info

Tornado had its world premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival on February 26, 2025, where it received early praise for its originality and performances. It will officially release in UK cinemas on June 13, 2025, distributed by Lionsgate UK.

🌪️ Final Thoughts: Get Ready for the Storm

If you're craving a historical thriller with a sharp edge and a unique cultural mashup, Tornado is the film to watch. It’s a period piece that doesn’t play by the rules, bringing the spirit of a spaghetti western and the soul of a samurai epic into a riveting 18th-century showdown.

Prepare yourself — Tornado is more than just a name. It’s a force of nature.

Stay tuned for more reviews, interviews, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as we get closer to the film’s release.

Will you brave the storm when Tornado hits cinemas?