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Writer's pictureStephen Yanni

Twister, (1996) - The Storm Chasers’ Saga

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

Released 05-10-1996

Watched 07-06-2024

Reviewed 07-11-2024

Watched on MAX



"When you used to tell me that you chase tornadoes, deep down I always just thought it was a metaphor."


My daughter and I recently had the pleasure of attending a panel discussion with Helen Hunt at FanCon Dallas. Her charm and enthusiasm for “Twister” were palpable, reigniting my excitement for this classic disaster film. With the sequel, “Twisters,” hitting theaters soon, it was the perfect time to revisit the original.


“Twister,” directed by Jan de Bont, is a thrilling rollercoaster of a movie that captures nature's raw power and unpredictability. The film follows storm chasers Jo (Helen Hunt) and Bill Harding (Bill Paxton) as they pursue the most destructive tornadoes in the heartland of America. The special effects, groundbreaking for their time, still hold up remarkably well and deliver a visceral experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat.


Helen Hunt’s fierce and heartfelt performance embodies a character driven by passion and personal loss. The chemistry between Hunt and Paxton adds depth to the story, making their perilous journey all the more engaging. The supporting cast, including Philip Seymour Hoffman and Cary Elwes, brings a mix of humor and tension that rounds out the ensemble.


Living in North Texas, where tornadoes are a real threat, “Twister” strikes a chord with its realistic depiction of these natural disasters. However, there’s a certain comfort in watching the chaos unfold from the safety of our living room rather than experiencing it firsthand.


The film’s fast pace, intense action sequences, and moments of levity make it a highly entertaining watch. It’s no wonder that there’s renewed interest in “Twister” with the upcoming sequel. This movie remains a must-see adventure for fans of the original or newcomers drawn by the hype.

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