The aliens are coming...

Rating: 6/10 (20 April 2016)

Independence Day is made in the style and tradition of the 50's B- movies like "It Came From Outer Space". It's not supposed to be a deep philosophical discussion about Man Against The Universe, nor an attempt to seriously visualize the possible consequences of alien invasion. It's meant to be good fun, watching Our Heroes struggle valiantly against The Evil Alien Hordes. And remember, this film is brain's candy, not brain's food.
This is undoubtedly one of the most fun sci-fi movies in history. The tale starts with a ship roughly 1/4 size of the moon entering orbit of earth, only to send down multiple city sized ships to our cities to wipe out humanity. This is one of those movies where you won't realize you've spent nearly 3 hours in front of your set. In fact, you'll probably want more.. I think there's really nothing particularly special about this film, other than it manages to fit all it's 'block-buster' fair into such a tight package, and casts it so well, that it works. Again, I go on about pacing, but for me it's crucial in a 'block-buster' film. The characters are a distinctly stock: cool, macho pilot, geek who saves the day, drunk who comes good in a crisis, US President who is also action man (cf Airforce One). The special effects are very good, but alone this doesn't explain success (anyone remember Dune?). I think this movie succeeds, because it is fun. Lots of explosions, action & enjoyable clichés.
Overall rating: 6 out of 10.