Is 'Twisters' Scary for Kids?: What Parents Need to Know

If you’re thinking of taking your kids to see Twisters, and looking for a spoiler-free parent review, don’t worry, I’ve got you. And details to help you decide if Twisters is scary for kids you might want to bring.

‘Twisters’ Movie Review

I know what you’re thinking, cause I’m thinking it too. ‘Really? ANOTHER millennial movie makeover? Haven’t we taken enough?’ Blockbuster hits we consumed as a generational community just don’t happen like they used to. We have streaming now. And Hollywood has to capitalize on our 90s nostalgia while they can. I think we’re perhaps the last generation they can do this type of thing with. Anyway, more often than not, when I go and see a sequel/remake from the 90s I go in with high hopes and leave feeling disappointed. I try to leave my optimism at home, yet I still manage to get excited. But friends, perhaps the first time ever, I left feeling completely THRILLED with the movie. It didn’t crap on the OG, or ruin my childhood. It brought the thrills I loved in an entirely new story.

I hate when a sequel tries too hard to tie to an original, or when they blatantly steal and rework the same plot. There was none of that with Twisters. A couple of nods, sure, but this is a movie viewers can enjoy even if they haven’t seen the original.

A man and woman sit smiling on top of a truck. Twisters parent review

What I Liked About ‘Twisters’

I loved the plot of Twisters. It felt fresh and new while still giving a few nods to the original movie. The story kept me guessing and was visually thrilling, capturing the same excitement and nervous energy I felt with the first Twister film. The cast was excellent, and their performances added depth to the thrilling storyline.

What I Didn’t Like About ‘Twisters’

There wasn’t much I didn’t like about Twisters. Even down to the music, I was into it. There was one part of the movie where I wanted to pause it and see how much time was left. I didn’t want it to end. Strangely enough the only thing I think that woulda made me like it even more is if there had been MORE tornadoes. I’m sure someone will do this, but it would be interesting to see a tornado count comparing this movie to the ’96 one.

Twisters parent movie review. Is Twisters scary for kids?

I’m not gonna go into that because you’ve gotta go see it yourself. But I just wanna say that it gave me a weird sense of Oklahoma pride though I’ve never been to OK. And I totally need to get Brian a cowboy hat. Ok, that’s it. I said it. Now on to what parents need to know about Twisters!

What parents need to know about ‘Twisters’

Parents wondering if Twisters is okay for kids should know that this movie is a thriller, much like the original. It has intense scenes that might be frightening for younger children, especially those who are sensitive to storms or natural disasters. Personally I didn’t bring my kids to the screening because 1. They haven’t seen the OG, and until I know how they can handle that at home, I didn’t want their first natural disaster thriller to be in a large, dark, loud theater where everything is more intense. 2. As a kid I saw Twister when I was 10 and definitely had tornado nightmares for a while. Granted, tornadoes were more of a thing in GA than here in TX. 3. Some of my kids deal with anxiety about weather/dark and I think it could open a can of worms we don’t really need. I think if your kids have seen Twister from 1996 and enjoyed it, this one is very much on par with that movie when it comes to intensity and content.

Once I test out a little thriller at home if my (big) kids do ok, it’s gonna be on like Donkey Kong and I’ll be ready to show them all sorts of new fun movies.

Is ‘Twisters’ Scary for kids?

Twisters is rated PG-13 for intense action, peril, and images of injuries. It’s a thrilling movie that could be too intense for younger viewers or those sensitive to storms. If your kids have seen the original Twister and enjoyed it, they’ll likely handle this one well. However, for first-time thriller viewers, it might be best to start with the original at home.

Here’s a breakdown of the content to help you decide if it’s suitable for your family:

Language: There’s some swearing, occasional use of “sh*t,” “damn,” and “a–hole.”
Violence and Scary Scenes: The movie is intense with scenes of destruction caused by tornadoes. There’s one jump scare early on.I didn’t scream, but jumped in my seat. I was good the rest of the movie. If your kids are scared of storms or natural disasters, this movie might be too intense for them.
Sexual Content: Brief kissing early on, some flirting between adults, but no explicit sexual content.
Twisters MPAA: Rated PG-13 for intense action and peril, some language and injury images.

Overall, the movie has its funny moments, balancing the intense scenes with lighter ones.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Twisters is a fantastic sequel that stands on its own while honoring the original. It’s a thrilling, engaging film that’s perfect for a date night or for kids who can handle the intensity. Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to the story, Twisters delivers a memorable movie experience. I honestly cannot wait to see it again.

Are you planning to go see Twisters? Please let us know what you think!

Wondering how our review of Twisters might compare to yours? Check out some of our other movie reviews.

If you like watching movies together as a family you’ll love our Family Movie Night Journal! Created by me and my oldest daughter Jayda. It’s bringing a family tradition of movie watching and rating to families around the world.