Skip to main content

Peacock’s “Twisted Metal” channels the nostalgia of Playstation-generation video game fans and car enthusiasts alike. However, Anthony Mackie and his on-screen companion, a 2002 Subaru WRX STi, have a relationship that viewers, unless they’re car fans, simply won’t understand. Mackie’s dynamic with “Evelyn” can teach the show’s spectators about the bond between enthusiast and car. 

Anthony Mackie and ‘Twisted Metal’ can teach non-car people a thing or two about bonding with a car 

Anthony Mackie brings John Doe to the screen in “Twisted Metal.” For those out-of-the-know, “Twisted Metal” is a video game franchise featuring vehicular combat with everything from armored muscle cars to silly, sinister clown-liveried ice cream trucks. 

In episode eight of the show’s first season, Mackie’s character reveals a flashback of his first experiences with Evelyn, the name he has for his 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. At a glance, and especially considering that the show is based on a vehicular battle royale video game franchise, you might not expect John Doe to bond with his vehicle. 

A blue 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX STi from the side.
2002 Subaru Impreza WRX STi | Collecting Cars

After all, life expectancy for a car wouldn’t be long in a post-apocalyptic landscape like that of the show. However, Anthony Mackie’s relationship with the Subaru is more mystical than it is practical. Heart over head. Just like us enthusiasts. It’s holistic. Doe’s WRX STi is his best friend, his only family, and his lifeline.

Evelyn returns to Mackie’s character whenever they’re separated, whether by malice or mistake. That’s what makes his final loss of his Impreza WRX STi so heartbreaking. If you’ve bonded with a vehicle and lost it (probably not as dramatically as John Doe’s experience), you’ll understand how it can feel akin to losing a close companion.

Fortunately, Anthony Mackie’s John Doe wasn’t without a ride for long in “Twisted Metal.” No, he found yet another vehicular comrade in a third-generation Chevrolet Camaro. I can hear the Subie faithful complaining already. Love it or hate it, season 2 is on the way.

Related
60 Years of James Bond and Aston Martin: Celebrating the Longest Automotive Relationship in Hollywood

60 Years of James Bond and Aston Martin: Celebrating the Longest Automotive Relationship in Hollywood

The Pontiac Fiero in ‘How I Met Your Mother’ Was Far From the Show’s Worst Vehicle

The Pontiac Fiero in ‘How I Met Your Mother’ Was Far From the Show’s Worst Vehicle

Best in Tips, Tricks & Trends
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).