How ‘Twisters’ Catapulted 4DX in America and What It Means for Hollywood’s Future

Experiencing “Twisters” in a late-night New York screening, I found myself immersed in a whirlwind of motion and effects. The film’s intense tornado scenes, where college students are tragically swept away, should have been unsettling, yet the audience’s reaction was unexpected: they laughed uproariously.

Our laughter stemmed from our own simulated tornado experience. Although our storm was artificial, created in an air-conditioned theater with cushioned seats, the sensory effects—wind, water, and seat movement—were convincingly immersive.

For a steep $32, I opted for this 4DX experience over a free AMC A-List screening, prompted by a friend’s enthusiastic recommendation. Despite its modest film status, “Twisters” in 4DX was transformed into an exceptional experience.

The film’s success in 4DX was no accident. A strategic marketing campaign, word-of-mouth recommendations, and viral TikTok trends showcasing exaggerated theater effects contributed to “Twisters” achieving its best domestic opening of the year in the format, grossing $2.3 million. This record was soon surpassed by “Deadpool & Wolverine,” which dominated the 4DX screens nationwide, cementing two major hits for the format.

4DX offers a unique moviegoing experience, combining seat motion, vibrations, and environmental effects such as wind and fog, tailored specifically for each film. For “Twisters,” which features dramatic tornado sequences, the effects mimic a roller coaster ride. While exhilarating, it could be overwhelming for those prone to motion sickness.

Although U.S. audiences are still adjusting to immersive formats, Regal, which owns most of the 64 U.S. 4DX screens, is expanding its offerings following the success of “Twisters.” The theater chain is reintroducing both “Twisters” and its 1996 predecessor for another week starting August 30, fueled by strong pre-sale figures.

The continued growth of 4DX hinges on its ability to offer something unique that home viewers cannot replicate. CJ 4DPlex, the company behind 4DX, works closely with filmmakers to enhance the movie experience, ensuring that each film’s effects are finely tuned.

With plans to add more 4DX locations and future films in the pipeline, the format is carving a niche in the cinematic landscape. The future of 4DX is promising, and as filmmakers explore new creative possibilities, the demand for such immersive experiences is likely to expand.