Hollywood continues to trawl through vintage blockbusters in search for the next reboot-sequel-midquel-whatever. The latest to get dusted off is weather-based romp Twister.
Those unaware of the 1996 movie will be disappointed to know it is not based on the body-bending board game, but instead it revolves around scientists chasing freak weather storms.
The unimaginatively titled sequel, Twisters, is set to begin shooting in early 2023. Producers are hoping to bring back Helen Hunt, with the plot of Twisters focused on the daughter she had with the character played by the late Bill Paxton.
While the original failed to win over critics, it grossed more than $494 million worldwide and helped push the envelope for blockbuster visual effects. They’re still waiting for that cow to land again.
One other thing that has changed significantly since the original movie’s release is the impact of climate change. It’s almost a given that this sequel will carry a strong message on the climate crisis, perhaps serving less as a pure thrill-ride.
Deadline reports that a director is yet to be officially signed on to the sequel, but Universal Pictures and Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment are currently courting several candidates.
Spielberg himself reportedly showed interest in the script by The Revenant screenwriter Mark L Smith, and it’s the legendary filmmaker's enthusiasm for the project that has fast-tracked the film.