The original "Twister" amazed audiences in 1996 and became arguably the most iconic disaster film of all time. The dizzying visuals left an indelible mark on cinema -- that mooing cow as it flies across a darkened sky is impossible to forget — and were brought to life using a revolutionary mix of CGI and practical effects. Now, through a collaborative effort between Universal Studios and Warner Bros., "Twister" is getting new life with the ominously pluralized "Twisters" (Oh, you liked one Twister? Here's several). The idea of a "Twister" sequel has been rumored for years, but now the time has finally arrived.
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It's important to note that "Twisters" is not a true sequel, as earlier reporting hinted. The studio emphasizes that this is a "new chapter" — so don't expect a surprise cameo from Helen Hunt or CGI Bill Paxton (I know, we're disappointed, too).
Nevertheless, there's plenty to be excited about with "Twisters." It's got an all-star cast of A-list talent and a young, hungry, innovative director in Lee Isaac Chung, best known for Indie hit "Minari." While "Minari" is decidedly not an action movie, it is full of heart and personality, and it will be interesting to see what Chung can do with a massive budget at his disposal. Jan de Bont, the director of the original, is reserving his excitement, however.
"Don't forget that the main reason they're finding younger, inexperienced people is they want to be able to fully control them," he told Inverse. "They want them to have really good ADs, writers, producers, cinematographers so that they have all the help they can get. But ultimately, the studio is going to tell them what's in the movie. I know that firsthand."
It remains to be seen whether "Twisters" will follow in its predecessor's footsteps and completely rewrite the disaster movie genre, or become another soulless cash-grab that sweeps up viewers hungry for nostalgia (or, perhaps, too scared to try something new). As we barrel ever closer to the premiere date, here's everything we know so far about "Twisters."
When Does 'Twisters' Come Out?
Universal Pictures
Scheduled for release on July 19, 2024, "Twisters" marks the return of the iconic film nearly three decades after its original debut on May 10, 1996. The sequel finished filming in early 2023 in Los Angeles.
The concept of reviving "Twister" first emerged in June 2020 when Universal Pictures initiated plans for a reboot. During that period, Joseph Kosinski, renowned for directing "Top Gun: Maverick," was reportedly in discussions to helm the project, according to Variety. Fast forward over two years to October 2022, Deadline disclosed that Universal Pictures and Steven Spielberg's production company, Amblin Entertainment, were actively engaging with directors to kickstart the sequel officially named "Twisters." Notably, Spielberg, a producer of the original film, played a pivotal role in advancing the sequel by reading and endorsing the script, ultimately securing the green light for the project. The studio ultimately landed Chung as director.
Who is Starring in 'Twisters'?
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Daisy Edgar-Jones will play the protagonist, a storm chaser who is confined to a desk job after nearly dying in a tornado. The versatile actress has taken on a variety of roles. She gained prominence as Marianne in the TV series "Normal People," embodying a complex character navigating relationships and emotions. Additionally, her role as Anna in "War of the Worlds" showcased her talent in a sci-fi setting. In the film "Where the Crawdads Sing," she portrayed Kya's enigmatic nature with aplomb.
Glen Powell is expected to play a fellow storm chaser and romantic interest of Edgar-Jones' character. There are even rumors he could play the son of Paxton and Hunt's characters who followed in the family business. Powell is best known for his role as a hotshot fighter pilot in another recent action-packed reboot, "Top Gun: Maverick." He also played Glen Stetson in "Everybody Wants Some!!," embodying the carefree spirit of a college athlete. In the romantic comedy "Set It Up," he portrayed the witty and charming Charlie, earning praise for his comedic timing. He's also got the chops for more serious roles, as evidenced by his performance as Finnegan in "Hidden Figures."
Joining the two leading actors are Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea, and Daryl McCormack as well as Maura Tierney, Harry Hadden-Paton, Sasha Lane, Kiernan Shipka, Nik Dodani, David Corenswet, Tunde Adebimpe and Katy O'Brian.
What is 'Twisters' About?
Universal Pictures
The plot of "Twisters" has been largely kept under wraps. Not even the character names have been released. Currently, IMDB has the closest thing resembling an official logline, which reads: "An update to the 1996 film 'Twister,' which centered on a pair of storm chasers who risk their lives in an attempt to test an experimental weather alert system."
