One of the Best Movies of All Time

Rating: 10/10 (30 April 2005)

Yes, I know some of you don't like it; yes, I know the critics trashed it, but I think the critics missed the point: it's the best parody of alien invasion movies that's ever been made; it's just serious enough to apparently fool a lot of folks. It even comes complete with Brent Spiner's send-up of his own image (Data, Star Trek NG) as Area 51's mad scientist, Dr Oaken (sp?), Randy Quaid's parody of Crazy Cousin Eddie in the Vacation movies, Jeff Goldblum's send-up of the eccentric nerd, and a whole cast of familiar stereotypes from other alien movies.
The "deal" with this movie is that if you're not a Sci-Fi fan with a history of watching classic Sci-Fi movies, the arcane references will most likely fly over your head.
There's something for every Sci-Fi fan, lines and references lifted straight from "War of the Worlds," "2001, A Space Odessy," and several others.
Watch the movie with a sense of humor and tongue planted firmly in cheek, and if nothing else, set yourself up for a hilarious and sterling performance by Will Smith, in one of his first high visibility roles.
That alone is worth the price of the rental.