You are here:

Twister

Name: Twister
Director: Michael Almereyda
Released: 1989
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

4.8/10

Fair

1989

PG-13

Director

Michael Almereyda

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Twister presents a fragmented, eccentric family unit that avoids the typical idealized clichés of American domestic life. It delves into the tension between secular wealth and religious influence, creating a more nuanced character study. While the film introduces some diversity through its racial and gendered roles, it remains tied to traditional hierarchies. The presence of a Black maid and a male-dominated power structure suggests a reliance on established social archetypes. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its subversion of the 'perfect' family, despite lacking progressive representation in terms of LGBTQ+ identities or disability visibility.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Twister have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicitly LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. The story revolves around conventional romantic relationships such as fiancées and ex-husbands.

How does Twister portray gender?

Fair

Female characters play key roles in the domestic dynamics, including a daughter and a precocious child. However, the power structure is still dominated by a male figure.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Twister?

Fair

A Black maid adds racial diversity within the Kansas farm setting. Her role, however, reflects traditional domestic service hierarchies.

How does Twister represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story explores the clash between capitalism and religion through a tycoon and an evangelist. This setup challenges the idealized image of the American family.

Does Twister include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or mentioned depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in the narrative.

Present on Screen

Challenges the idealized American family cliché through a dysfunctional, eccentric household.
Explores compelling themes around the tension between capitalism and organized religion.
Highlights female-driven domestic dynamics through various female characters.

Limited or Absent

Does not include explicit representation for LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
Relies on traditional domestic service archetypes for racial diversity.
Maintains a traditional patriarchal power structure within the family hierarchy.

Official Synopsis

An oddball family on a Kansas farm are trapped in their farmhouse by an impending storm. The patriarch of the clan is a retired soda pop tycoon. He is currently dating a children's TV evangelist. Also living at the farm is his layabout daughter and her precocious 8 year old daughter, his would-be artist son, the son's fiancée, and the black maid. Also thrown into the mix is the daughter's ex-husband, a ne-er-do-well who is seeking to get back in his ex-wife's good graces.

How are these scores produced? →