The blockbuster hit “Twisters” has been captivating audiences in Oklahoma, including those in towns that have been scarred by deadly tornadoes in the past. The film, which features Daisy Edgar-Jones and Glen Powell, opened to impressive numbers, generating $80.5 million in its opening weekend from over 4,150 theaters in North America. Some of the largest audiences have been in the tornado-prone Midwest, with the Regal Warren in Moore being the top-performing theater in the country on opening weekend. The moviegoers mentioned wanting to see the film in a theater that survived a massive tornado, showcasing a sense of defiance towards mother nature.
The director of “Twisters,” Lee Isaac Chung, felt it was critically important to film the movie in Oklahoma, where the story is set. The film was shot at locations across the state, taking advantage of Oklahoma’s rebate incentive program, which reimburses production companies for up to 30% of qualifying expenditures. The exact amount spent on “Twisters” by Oklahoma is still being calculated, but the success of the film aligns with the state’s goal of attracting major productions through incentives. Oklahoma officials increased the amount available for the program in 2021 from $8 million annually to $30 million, leading to a surge in film projects in the state.
Jeanette Stanton, the director of Oklahoma’s Film and Music Office, expressed that the success of “Twisters” was not surprising, especially in Oklahoma where residents take pride in seeing their state on the big screen. The film showcased various iconic locations in the state, making Oklahoma almost a character in itself within the movie. In towns like Barnsdall, where two people were killed and numerous homes were destroyed by a tornado in May, the mayor expects most residents to embrace the film, although reactions may vary among individuals. The impact of the film on communities affected by natural disasters like tornadoes is yet to be fully realized.
The portrayal of storms, danger, and the resilience of characters in “Twisters” resonated with moviegoers in Oklahoma, who have a unique relationship with severe weather due to their exposure to tornadoes and other natural disasters. The success of the film highlights the state’s efforts to attract filmmakers through incentive programs, resulting in major productions choosing Oklahoma as their filming location. The sense of community pride in seeing familiar landmarks and locations on the big screen adds to the appeal of watching films like “Twisters” in theaters. Overall, the reception of the movie in Oklahoma reflects a blend of excitement, drama, and a shared connection to the state’s history of facing powerful storms. The impact of “Twisters” extends beyond entertainment, serving as a reminder of the resilience and spirit of communities in the face of adversity.
