When the 1996 disaster film “Twister” was released it became a blockbuster success which even inspired an attraction “Ride It Out At” Universal Studios theme park in Orlando which opened two years after the movie’s release and closed in 2015.
The 1996 American disaster film was directed by Jan de Bont, and written by Michael Crichton and Anne-Marie Martin. It stars Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton as storm chasers who attempt to deploy a tornado research device during a severe outbreak in Oklahoma.
“Twister” was a box office success as well as a huge success on the newly released VHS killing format known as DVD.
- Domestically: It grossed over $241 million.
- Worldwide: It achieved a total gross of nearly $500 million.
This made it one of the highest-grossing films of 1996.
It was also the first movie released on DVD in the United States was Twister, which was released on March 25, 1997. However, other movies were released on DVD in Japan before the US, including Blade Runner, The Fugitive, Eraser, and The Assassin.
Here’s some more information about the history of DVDs:
- The first DVD technology was finalized in September 1996.
- The first DVD players were released in Japan in November 1996, and in the US in April 1997.
- The original DVD format had a single layer and could store 1.46 gigabytes.
- The DVD format was more expensive than VHS at first, but people preferred DVDs for their better picture and audio quality, larger capacity, and more compact size.
- The nationwide rollout of DVDs in the US happened on August 22, 1997
“Twister” was a great choice to introduce the US to a new technology as it has several few key elements that contribute to its appeal:
- Thrilling Action: The movie is packed with intense scenes of tornadoes, creating a sense of suspense and excitement. The special effects, for the time, were groundbreaking and still hold up well today.
- Nostalgic Factor: Released in 1996, “Twister” evokes a sense of nostalgia for many viewers who grew up in the 90s. It’s a classic summer blockbuster with a certain charm that’s hard to replicate.
- Relatable Themes: At its core, “Twister” is a story about facing fears and overcoming personal challenges. Jo Harding’s pursuit of understanding tornadoes is driven by a tragic past, making her journey relatable to many viewers.
- Memorable Characters: The film features a cast of memorable characters, including Bill Paxton’s charismatic Bill Harding and Helen Hunt’s determined Jo Harding. Their dynamic and chemistry add another layer of interest.
While some might find the science in the movie a bit exaggerated, “Twister” remains a thrilling and entertaining ride that continues to captivate audiences.
This Twister Steelbook Ultimate Collectors Edition is a collector’s dream!
The Twister Ultimate Collectors Edition Steelbook Limited Edition typically includes:
- 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray: The movie in both high-definition formats.
- Steelbook Case: A collectible metal case to store the discs.
- Rigid Slipcase: An outer protective case for the steelbook.
- Production Notes Booklet: Information about the making of the film.
- Lobby Cards: Reproductions of original promotional materials.
- Double-Sided Poster: A large poster featuring artwork from the film.
Some editions may also include additional bonus features like documentaries or interviews.
If you enjoy disaster movies or are looking for a fun, nostalgic throwback, “Twister” is definitely worth a watch.
Other natural disaster films you might enjoy
If you enjoyed the thrill and spectacle of “Twister,” you might like these films:
- Twisters (2024): Twisters brings back the blockbuster disaster epic with a whirlwind of heart-stopping action and exhilarating thrills. Ever since a devastating tornado encounter, Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones) gave up chasing storms across the Oklahoma prairie to safely study them on screens in New York City. Lured back to the field by her friend Javi (Anthony Ramos) and a once-in-a-lifetime scientific opportunity, Kate crosses paths with Tyler (Glen Powell), a charming daredevil and self-proclaimed tornado wrangler whose thirst for tornado-tracking adventures made him a social media sensation. As storm season intensifies with terrifying phenomena unlike anything seen before, Kate and Tyler realize they may need to work together if they are to have any chance of taming, and surviving, an unprecedented outbreak of destructive tornados.
- Into the Storm (2014): This movie follows a group of storm chasers who encounter an unprecedented supercell. It features even more intense and realistic tornado footage.
- The Day After Tomorrow (2004): This film depicts a more global climate disaster, with a sudden ice age gripping the Northern Hemisphere. It offers a different kind of disaster spectacle.
- San Andreas (2015): This movie focuses on a massive earthquake that devastates California. It shares the sense of scale and destruction that “Twister” provides.
- Geostorm (2017): This sci-fi thriller imagines a future where climate-controlling satellites malfunction, leading to global catastrophe. It explores similar themes of environmental disaster.
- Volcano (1997): This movie depicts a volcanic eruption in Los Angeles, offering another classic disaster movie experience with impressive visuals.
These movies all offer thrilling action, impressive special effects, and explore the power of nature in different ways, similar to “Twister.”