WAKITA, OK - It's been 25 years since the Steven Spielberg movie "Twister" came out in theaters. “Twister,” which was released May 9, 1996, became the second-biggest film (behind “Independence Day”) of 1996. There's much debate today as to whether the movie is now seen as cheesy or if it still stands the test of time.
"Twister" starred Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt as storm chasers researching tornadoes. It was directed by Jan de Bont from a screenplay by Michael Crichton and Anne-Marie Martin. Its executive producers were Steven Spielberg, Walter Parkes, Laurie MacDonald and Gerald R. Molen.
It is notable for being both the first Hollywood feature film to be released on DVD format and one of the last to be released on HD DVD. Other famous stars in the film included Jami Gertz, Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Jake Busey.
The town of Wakita and the Twister Museum are celebrating the 25th anniversary by having a block party in the middle of town on May 15. Enjoy an Open House and Autograph Party at the museum from 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm.
Autographs available will include: Sean Whalen (by purchase); Wendle Josepher, Haynes (12-3pm); April Warren, flashback mom (by donation); John Rhyne, paramedic (by donation).
There will be a Storm Chaser Car Show (no parade), "look Like A Star" contest and many kids games.
The lunch break is from 12-1pm and will include Walking Tacos at the Citizens by Community Health Center, Sloppy Joe meal at Wakita Foodland and burgers at the Gazebo.
There will be a May birthday party for April Warren and Bill Paxton. Paxton passed away February 25, 2017.
Other vendors will have beef jerky, cinnamon rolls, ice cream, popcorn and snow cones. Take your lawn chairs and cash!
Due to COVID-19 concerns, masks are to be worn inside the museum, however, most of the event will be held outdoors for your safety.
The Rodeo Cinema in OKC will be showing "TWISTER " on May 22 at 7pm. April (flashback mom) Warren and The Twister Museum will be there. The address is 2221 Exchange Ave., OKC.
Enjoy the Wakita "Twister (The Movie) Museum", "Twister Park" and "Twister Walking Tour". The museum is in the same old building that the movie people used as their art department, set dressing and location office. It is full, as they say, to the rafters with items used both during the filming and the movie premier.
If you've seen the movie you will remember "Dorothy 1," who is there with movie posters, stills, autographed movie props, photos, collectibles and some speakers from the drive-in that they destroyed during the making of the movie. The museum has a gift shop where you can find a great souvenir.
The museum director Linda Wade says the museum gets visitors every day in the summer. "Twister" fans come from every state and from spots all over the world. The guest book has been signed by tourists from as far away as the Central African Republic and Antwerp, Belgium.
The museum is located at 101 W. Main, Wakita, OK. The hours are from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Tuesday-Saturday running April to August. Appointments also can be made to see the museum. Admission is free. Phone: 580-594-2312.
Worked Security in Ponca City and in Osage County. Still have my twister ID badge.