Good, but not as good as I had hoped

Rating: 6/10 (3 August 2002)

WARNING! POSSIBLE SPOILER! SEE THE MOVIE BEFORE READING THIS!
This was a very low-key invasion film. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, considering most invasion films in the SF genre tend to be special effects fests and over the top. But it was so low key, that, well, where they ended up is pretty symbolic of how low it was.
The other unfortunate thing is that the more I think about the film, the worse it comes off, mainly in the plot device that results in the resolution of the situation. Trying not to give to much away (too late!) if you really think about it, this is a very humid planet and it rains a lot (after all, what grew all that corn?). So the basic premise of this race coming here just doesn't hold up.
That said, the movie had two very important elements in its favor: the performances and the directing. IF you see the plot (and the word that comes to mind is "contrived") as merely a vehicle for the acting and directing, then it succeeds beautifully, as ALL the performances were absolutely excellent (and one real standout -- though somewhat bizarre -- was by the guy who played the Army recruiter). And there are scenes that are so masterfully directed that you find yourself holding your breath while they're happening (I believe this is called "suspense"). As to whether or not I would go see it again, no. As to whether or not I would rent the DVD as soon as it came out, yes. I believe that merits a "6."