Director Lee Isaac Chung surprised many by choosing Twisters as his next project after the success of Minari, which was nominated for an Oscar. However, Chung’s personal connection to the storm-prone Midwest region influenced his decision to explore tornadoes on the big screen. Growing up near the Oklahoma border in Arkansas, Chung felt a strong tie to the setting of the original Twister film and pushed for filming to take place in Oklahoma for authenticity.
In a recent interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Chung discussed the scientific elements of Twisters and how they blend real-world concepts with science fiction. He wanted to pay homage to the impact the original Twister had on inspiring an interest in storm research, even though some of the ideas presented in the film are purely theoretical. The new movie follows a character named Kate, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, who embarks on a mission to disrupt the dynamics of a tornado, drawing on both scientific theories and imaginative concepts.
To ensure that Twisters strikes a balance between realism and entertainment, Chung enlisted the help of a technical advisor from the 1996 film to guide the visual effects team. The goal was to create a film that appeals to audiences seeking a thrilling summer blockbuster experience while still incorporating scientific principles. Chung emphasized the importance of providing explanations for complex concepts in the film, similar to the role of Jami Gertz’s character in the original movie.
The visual effects in Twisters were handled by Industrial Light & Magic, with VFX supervisor Ben Snow bringing his expertise from the original film to enhance the portrayal of tornadoes and their impact. By incorporating advanced physics simulations into the VFX, the team was able to depict the destruction caused by tornadoes with incredible detail, down to the level of individual blades of grass. Practical effects, such as using a jet engine and large fans to simulate wind, were also employed to create a realistic environment for the actors.
Chung credited Twister director Jan de Bont for pioneering the use of practical effects in combination with VFX, a tradition that Twisters aims to continue. Working with special effects artist Scott Fisher, the team strived to make the tornado scenes feel as authentic as possible, using a combination of practical and digital effects to achieve the desired impact on screen.
In addition to exploring the technical aspects of the film, Chung delved into the thematic elements related to climate change present in Twisters. The movie is set to open on July 19, promising a high-octane experience that pays homage to the original while pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. For more updates on the latest in science fiction and VFX, be sure to follow io9 for all the latest news and releases in the world of entertainment.
