Twisters Sequel Abandoning Original Movie Story

Twisters‘ screenwriter, Mark L. Smith, relayed that the film would diverge from the original storyline and, through its independent narrative, hopefully draw an audience worthy of the 90s classic.

Fans of the first film look forward to a fresh spin on an old favorite scheduled to hit theaters in the Summer of 2024.

Smith emphasized how Twisters retains the excitement and adventure that enlivened the 90s predecessor. Its director, Lee Isaac Chung, has reportedly had a hand in the plotline, further shaping the script. 

Universal confirmed that Twisters boasts an impressive cast, featuring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell in starring roles.

Interestingly, modern issues ripped from the headlines—specifically, climate change—feature heavily in Smith’s screenplay.

Due to global warming, the altered patterns of tornado seasons factor significantly; this should add compelling realism to the film. 

Traditionally, areas known for the most tornadoes, or twisters, in the United States—regions collectively referred to as Tornado Alley—have been Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska.

However, recent trends suggest fundamental shifts toward the East and South, including Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. Unfortunately, the changing pattern leads to tornados manifesting in more densely populated areas. 

Additionally, this subject matter will highlight the heightening seriousness (and unpredictability) of weather phenomena in our era. 

Also, the tornado season is growing increasingly unpredictable and lengthy, extending beyond the usual spring and early summer months.

This longer season equates to potentially more frequent tornadoes across a larger time frame each year. Studies also propound that the number of uniquely severe twisters could rise, eventuating more destructive storms. 

The original Twister starred Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton as storm chasers and estranged spouses, reunited by a spat of devastating tornado outbreaks in Oklahoma.

Together, the pair daringly attempt to deploy a revolutionary piece of tornado research technology, aptly named Dorothy.

This high-tech reference to The Wizard of Oz is intended to enhance tornado forecasting.

The thriller was lauded for its stellar special and sound effects, as well as, through almost scary realism, thrillingly depicting tornadoes on the big screen. Audiences were captivated. Twisters will look to capitalize in the same way.

Grossing over $494 million worldwide (making it the second-highest-grossing film of 1996–Twisters can only hope to earn as much), the film was a massive commercial and cultural success.

Moreover, its impact surpassed the box office, popularizing storm chasing and shaping public perception of meteorology. Look no further than the “Twister” attraction at Universal Studios for evidence of its cultural imprint. 

Critical take on the film was mixed. Many reviewers panned its thin plot and character development, while others lauded its engaging pace and the technological feat embodied by it.

The movie earned two Academy Award nominations—one for Best Visual Effects, the other for Best Sound.

Twisters appears primed to be an exciting reinvention, maintaining the essence of the first film while forging a new path. The updated narrative, modern scientific insights, and an intriguing cast mean Twisters is one to look out for.