Renowned Scottish filmmaker John Maclean has always had a passion for westerns. In 2015, his debut film Slow West was still garnering attention on the festival circuit when he felt inspired to embark on a new cinematic journey. This time, he envisioned his narrative unfolding in Britain in the year 1790, delving into the lives of characters he believed had been overlooked on screen: outlaws, musicians, and circus performers. Intriguingly, he sought to infuse his tale with a samurai essence.
Immersing himself in Japanese cinema at the time, Maclean thoroughly explored the works of legendary filmmaker Kurosawa and delved into analyses of his techniques and storytelling styles. This exploration of the interplay between American westerns and samurai films fueled his creative vision for his upcoming project.
The outcome of Maclean’s creative endeavor is “Tornado,” a British period drama and coming-of-age story that recently made its world premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival. Shot on location in the picturesque Pentland Hills in January 2023, the film stars Japanese actress Kōki as the titular character Tornado, a circus performer who transitions from using a sword for entertainment to wielding it for survival.
In her early twenties, Kōki showcased a multitude of talents, including modeling, music, composing, and acting, but mastering the art of the samurai sword posed a new challenge. With the guidance of a Japanese action team, she diligently prepared for the role, adapting to the physical demands and mental fortitude required.
Portraying Tornado’s father and mentor in swordsmanship, Takehiro Hira commended Kōki’s dedication and skill, noting her commitment to honing her craft even off-camera. Hira, known for his role in the Emmy-winning series “Shogun,” was impressed by Maclean’s deep knowledge of Japanese cinema and culture, which enriched the storytelling process.
Maclean, a former member of the Beta Band, seamlessly transitioned from creating music promos to crafting compelling narratives on screen. Drawing from his experience in the western genre, he sought to transpose its essence to the turbulent setting of 18th-century Britain, a time marked by societal upheaval and impending change.
Reflecting on the fusion of historical elements in the film, Tim Roth, who plays the outlaw leader Sugarman, praised the creative vision behind the costumes that blended different time periods. Maclean and his team embraced the freedom to reimagine the fashion of the era, acknowledging the scarcity of historical records detailing the attire of ordinary individuals.
As the cast and crew navigated the challenges of filming in unpredictable Scottish weather, Hira’s adaptation of traditional costumes underscored the dedication and versatility required to bring “Tornado” to life on the silver screen. Maclean’s innovative approach to storytelling, blending genres and cultures, promises an immersive cinematic experience that transcends boundaries and captivates audiences worldwide.
In a fascinating blend of cultures and genres, filmmaker John Maclean’s vision for a Scottish samurai western has finally come to life on the big screen. The intricacies of costume choices and the challenges faced by the cast and crew are just a few of the behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the film, titled “Tornado.”
Speaking of the unique costumes featured in the movie, Maclean expressed his unconventional approach, stating that they were “stumes but not the kind I would wear in Japanese cinema.” The versatile nature of the wardrobe allowed for improvisation, with Maclean himself envisioning wearing a particular outfit as a coat rather than its intended use as a scarf. This creative flexibility mirrored the resourcefulness of ordinary individuals of the time, adding an authentic touch to the production.
Central to the success of “Tornado” was the cohesion of the tight-knit cast and crew, who navigated the challenges of a low budget production with dedication and passion. Maclean credited their unwavering support for bringing his ambitious project to fruition, emphasizing the importance of their collective effort in realizing his dream on screen. The collaborative spirit and commitment to storytelling excellence were evident in the performances of the cast, with standout praise for leading actors such as Kōki and Jack Lowden.
Notably, Tim Roth’s portrayal in the film drew acclaim for his transformative performance, even in the face of challenging filming conditions. Roth’s dedication to his craft shone through, with Maclean highlighting the veteran actor’s ability to deliver a compelling performance under any circumstances. Reflecting on his past experiences, Roth shared insights into the demanding nature of filming in different environments, drawing a comparison to his earlier work on “Rob Roy.”
For Roth, the freezing Scottish forests of “Tornado” presented a welcome change from the infamous midgie season encountered during the filming of “Rob Roy” in 1995. Despite the harsh weather conditions, Roth’s commitment to his role remained unwavering, showcasing his professionalism and resilience as an actor. The contrast between past and present filming experiences offered a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of working in the film industry, where adaptability and perseverance are essential attributes.
Maclean’s personal connection to cinema history added a poignant layer to the production, with Roth’s involvement in “Tornado” symbolizing a full circle moment for the filmmaker. Recalling his formative years working at a cinema and encountering iconic figures like Quentin Tarantino, Maclean reflected on the influence of those interactions on his own aspirations to become a director. The convergence of past and present in the creation of “Tornado” underscored the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of cinematic experiences on individuals.
As “Tornado” prepares for its release in UK and Ireland cinemas on 23 May, the culmination of Maclean’s vision and the dedication of the cast and crew stand as a testament to the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. With a blend of historical inspirations and creative reinterpretations, the film promises
