In an era where Hollywood continues to search for multiverses and the next four-quadrant global franchise, the release of Twisters feels like a breath of fresh air amidst the ongoing storm between streaming and theatrical experiences. Seeing the movie last night in Midland, Ontario—a rural town that could have easily filled in for the corn fields of storm valley—was magical. The 6:30 pm screening was jammed with families, reminiscent of a time when character-driven stories, authentic relationships, and relatable motivations were at the heart of great filmmaking.

Back in 1996, Twister was a surprise box-office behemoth that introduced early May as the official start of the summer movie season. Opening to over $40 million in just three days (when the average cost of a movie ticket in North America was $4.00), the film, directed by Jan de Bont (“Speed”) and starring Helen Hunt (“As Good as It Gets”) and Bill Paxton (“Titanic”), captivated audiences with its thrilling depiction of storm chasers braving tornadoes in the heartland of America. However, what truly set Twister apart nearly thirty years ago was its focus on the characters’ emotional journeys. The film explored the complex relationship between Jo (Helen Hunt)  and Bill Harding (Bill Paxton), anchored specifically in Jo’s childhood trauma of witnessing her father perish in a massive tornado that destroyed her home and sense of self.

A marvel of special effects that combined groundbreaking CGI with heart-wrenching practical effects, the Steven Spielberg-produced picture was and still remains a benchmark for 90s Hollywood filmmaking. Not only did it reinvigorate the disaster genre—inspiring releases like Dante’s Peak, Volcano, Deep Impact, and Armageddon — it transcended norms of heroism by placing Jo at the center of the hero’s journey. Whereas that same summer Will Smith would save the world from an alien invasion in Independence Day, Helen Hunt would save America from the wrath of tornadoes.

Although Twisters follows the formula laid out in the original film, this spin-off isn’t concerned with world-building or multiverses. Other than a subtle nod to the original with the inclusion of the Dorothy technology that can scan the inside of a tornado for data, the world of Twisters, although familiar, belongs to the new generation of chasers.

Much like the original, Twisters, directed by Oscar nominee Lee Isaac Chung (“Minari”), anchors its blockbuster appeal in the psychological impact of trauma and its power to either build or destroy the pillars of our lives. The film introduces the audience to Kate (Daisy Edgar-Jones), who encounters a storm that will forever alter the course of her life. As Kate’s story unfolds, she navigates the aftermath of her trauma and meets Tyler (Glen Powell), a YouTube star who calls himself “The Tornado Wrangler.” A cowboy with a golden heart, Tyler reminds her of the importance of confronting our personal and collective storms. As Tyler shares his own struggles with Kate, he learns from and is inspired by her brilliance, courage, and selflessness. Although a romantic bond forms between them, it remains a subtle undercurrent rather than the film’s primary focus. Together with Kate’s old friend Javi  (Anthony Ramos), they navigate a world where personal stories, ambitions, and community converge.

The connection between characters and the ability to engage the audience in real emotions is the strength of Twisters. The friendships, conflicts, pain and empathy make the chasing all the more exhilarating and, yes, fun. The movie is not weighed down by character exposition but rather lifted by it. Impeccably paced, with action captured with a sense of clarity and stunning cinematography that screams Spielberg’s influence, the spectacle is never lost. Ultimately, the characters’ motivations are deeply intertwined with their past experiences, making their actions and decisions feel genuine and relatable. This authenticity is reminiscent of a golden era in Hollywood, where storytelling was anchored in character development and emotional depth.

Ultimately, Twisters is a call for resilience, addressing storms both literally and metaphorically. Through Kate and her ability to confront and embrace her traumas, audiences are reminded that new beginnings can emerge from life’s hardships. Kate’s journey highlights the power of resilience, illustrating how it is possible to rebuild and even strengthen the pillars of our lives in the wake of adversity.

Twisters is not just a thrilling disaster film; it is a poignant exploration of the human spirit. It’s a film that invites us to reflect on our own lives, our own storms, and our own capacities for resilience. In a world that often feels as chaotic and unpredictable as a tornado, Twisters stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling that speaks to the core of who we are. In the words of Tyler the Tornado Wrangler, “You don’t face your fears, you ride them.”