After catching a glimpse of Axel in the Twisted Metal season 2 trailer, my faith in the show’s ability to honor this iconic character has soared. The Peacock series, inspired by the legendary video game franchise, is set to make its return in Summer 2025, and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming vehicle combat tournament is palpable. The new trailer teases nine fresh faces from various entries in the Twisted Metal universe, and among the most exciting additions is Axel, who has made his mark in every game except the original.
Despite significant changes to his backstory, Axel’s portrayal across the games has maintained a striking consistency. He is known for being connected by his arms to two massive wheels equipped with machine guns. Sometimes he stands on a platform; other times, he’s strapped in with a waist harness. However, what has remained unchanged is his vulnerability, as he is always portrayed without any bodily protection. This posed a creative hurdle for the showrunners, who admitted they initially struggled with how to adapt him for the Twisted Metal series. Fortunately, they have seemingly hit upon an effective solution, as evidenced by his impressive appearance in the recent trailer.
Axel’s Design Looks Faithful To The Twisted Metal Video Games
Every moment featuring Axel in the Twisted Metal season 2 trailer elevates my anticipation for his character’s portrayal. He first makes an appearance in the background of a sweeping shot of various vehicles. The sheer size of his wheels is astonishing, being nearly double the size of a car next to him and just slightly smaller than the Roach Coach.
Moreover, the trailer tantalizingly hints at Axel’s dynamic abilities; we see him locking his hand into a wheel through a metal gauntlet, with only his forearm left exposed. This nod to his original design promises a faithful representation, staying true to the essence of a character whose identity is defined by his unprotected body. I was particularly impressed by the creative decision that allowed Axel to attach and detach himself from the vehicle, which opens the door for him to participate in more scenes leading up to the tournament.
Twisted Metal Finds Creative Ways To Bring The Best Video Game Characters To Life
The initial signs that the Twisted Metal adaptation could successfully translate the video game experience to television were evident in Sweet Tooth, the terrifying clown with a flaming head. Season 1 introduced a unique, post-apocalyptic twist on this character, featuring Samoa Joe as the physical embodiment of Sweet Tooth and Will Arnett lending his voice.
Anthony Carrigan’s interpretation of Calypso captures the gravitas and aesthetic characteristic of Twisted Metal 2 and Twisted Metal (2012).
The show also takes creative liberties with other beloved characters, such as Granny Dread and Miranda Watts. They revamped Granny Dread, giving her a modern edgy vibe in the TV show, while Miranda maintains her recognizable purple and white racing jumpsuit, now cleverly styled into a crop-top cami. Watching her command the vehicle Twister was a thrill, and I sincerely hope she returns for Twisted Metal season 2.
The Perfect Twisted Metal Season 2 Celebrity Cameo Probably Won’t Happen
Peacock’s Twisted Metal could have included the perfect celebrity cameo in season 2, but the chances are unfortunately slim.
The trailer for Twisted Metal season 2 also introduces Calypso, the franchise’s main antagonist. Unlike Axel, Calypso’s reveal offers a complete look at his costume and hair, complete with a compelling audio snippet. Anthony Carrigan brings a commanding presence to the character, echoing the likeness and depth found in Twisted Metal 2 and Twisted Metal (2012).
Twisted Metal
- Release Date
- July 27, 2023
- Writers
- Rhett Reese, Michael Jonathan Smith, Paul Wernick