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Twisters Production Design Secrets


3 actors watching tornado in the distance

The summer blockbuster Twisters has made a sensational debut, surpassing expectations by earning over $20 million more than projected during its opening weekend. This remarkable performance has secured Twisters the title of the third-biggest opening of 2024. 💥



The film stars Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos, and serves as a legacy sequel to the iconic 1996 movie "Twister." The plot follows a new generation of storm chasers as they venture into the heart of deadly tornadoes, capturing the awe-inspiring and terrifying power of nature.


A significant factor contributing to the success of 1 is the stunning visual effects. The film's CGI tornadoes are seamlessly integrated with the live-action sequences, creating a thrilling and immersive experience for audiences. The realistic portrayal of these massive storms, combined with the characters' intense chase scenes, keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.


In this behind-the-scenes look, we delve into the Twisters production design secrets that brought this film to life. From the advanced CGI techniques used to create the tornadoes to the meticulous planning of the action sequences, discover how the filmmakers crafted this visually stunning and adrenaline-pumping blockbuster.🌪️🌪️



Now let’s delve into 5 Production Design Secrets of Twisters


PD Secret #1: How the tornado’s rain was achieved

To create the realistic rain effects for the tornado scenes, the special effects team, led by Scott Fisher, utilized 10,000-gallon "dump tanks" and high-pressure pneumatic water cannons. These tools helped simulate the intense downpours associated with tornadoes. For the hail, the team employed a rubbery water-soluble polymer that closely mimics the appearance of ice but is softer. This material was chosen to reduce the impact on actors during filming, ensuring their safety while maintaining a believable visual effect.


Two people crouching down in the rain
Rain simulated with water cannons

PD Secret #2: The film was shot on 35mm

Cinematographer Dan Mindel conducted early camera tests using practical effects on different film mediums for "Twisters." He shared with IndieWire that the physical effects of rain, ice, smoke, and dust complemented the film grain of the 35mm stock they chose. This medium was selected because 35mm film produces a significant amount of texturization, which enhances the authentic depiction of weather conditions in the movie.


Mindel noted that shooting on film provides greater control over the final image due to its inherent lack of absolute clarity compared to digital cameras. He explained that the lower resolution of film offers "wiggle room" in how visual effects are integrated into the film frame, allowing for a more seamless and natural blend of effects with the live-action footage.


Two large cameras pointed at a standing woman
35 mm shots

PD Secret #3: The high-wind scenes required jet engines

Fisher (SFX Lead) purchased two jet engines capable of creating 170 to 180-mph winds, according to the film’s press notes. When the engines were kept at a significant distance from the set, they were able to simulate the desired effect of heavy wind. The director of the film, Lee Isaac Chung, said that on-set winds maxed out at 110 mph, which is comparable to an EF1 tornado. Essentially, the actors were being put through real tornado wind speeds, and live reacting to the simulated weather effects.


Woman standing in a windy landscape
High wind scenes powered by jet engines

PD Secret #4: Salvaged trees from actual tornado wreckages were used

Production designer Patrick Sullivan, who also worked on the original Twister film, and set decorator Missy Parker used trees that had been destroyed by actual tornadoes on the set of "Twisters." To source these authentic props, the production and set design team scouted areas that had experienced tornado damage, selecting trees and brush that had been impacted by the storms. This attention to detail added an extra layer of realism to the film's depiction of tornado-ravaged landscapes.


Truck driving down a grassy road with tornado debris surrounding it
Tree debris used from salvaged tornado wreckage

PD Secret #5: Kate’s outfits took inspiration from some iconic female characters

Kate’s underplayed wardrobe in Twisters was very intentional. Costume designer Eunice Jera Lee told Variety that she was inspired by “bad-ass women of cinema” including Furiosa in Mad Max: Fury Road, Ellen Ripley from Alien, and Thelma and Louise.


Woman covered in dust standing in front of debris
Kate's outfits inspired by other powerful women in film

Why is production design so important?

A production designer is head of the art department. On board from the beginning, they work with the director + producers to help bring the writer’s script, director’s vision + producer’s plans together as a visual whole. The production designer researches or "scouts" locations, eventually securing + preparing it for shooting. They budget the cost of materials, track expenses, and typically oversee the art director, set designers, illustrators + scenic painters to develop a specific visual style for a production. From minute details to overarching themes, a production designer must consider every aspect shown on screen, regardless of budget, they must be resourceful and think on their feet.


The production of Twisters exemplified the creativity in filmmaking, showcasing how practical effects can simulate real-life disasters. The tornadoes in the film highlight that not all effects are created in post-production; significant work in pre-production, including sourcing materials and technologies, plays a crucial role in live filming. We hope you enjoyed the Twisters production design secrets and that these insights have given you an appreciation for the creative efforts behind Twisters and the extensive work involved in bringing this summer blockbuster to life!


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