Quality

Rating: 8/10 (10 December 2012)

Independent isn't really the word for this fabulous blockbuster.
The story line is a mish mash from a large collection of well established works... "War of the worlds", "V", "Earth vs. Flying Saucers" and even a stab at "Battle of Britain" with its arcade game attempts at portraying a collosal aerial battle. Capt Jimmy Raven is depicted as juvenile, which may be a slap in the direction of US "friendly fire" pilots, whilst the rest of the world's forces are shown as comparatively professional and ill equipped.
Bill Pullman sticks to his role of US President in a perceived public image, and doesn't attempt to use a more likely and realistic manner. The alien visitors are treated as friendly until proved hostile, but the glaring warning signs are ignored.
Wll Smith plays Will Smith with his usual flair.
However the "Area 51" theory is handled quite well, even if Brent Spiner is kept in without a leash as Dr Okun, as if to say "forget Mr. Data let's be wacky".
If you have a large screen, or better still an LCD project, you will thoroughly enjoy the effects.