Artful job given the challenges inherent in making the film.

Rating: 8/10 (5 November 2006)

Bringing a classic H. G. Wells novel to the screen is no mean feat. Doing so in a manner that is entertaining and relevant to a 21st century audience requires almost a work of genius. Spielberg was able to bring to the screen most of the issues raised in Wells' novel without being for the lack of a better idiom, preachy. Spielberg also added a subplot of personal development for the lead. Cruise's character starts the movie as a failed husband who before the film traded his family for a seat at the alter of the Ford Mustang. He even has a broken down engine on his dinner table; the true mark of the single motorhead. The home has a "Genuine Ford Parts" sign as well as an engine part as an ashtray. The alien attack transforms him into the heroic father type. Robbins' character is a parallel to a character in the original, and conveys how men may break under pressure. Spielbergs technical team is to be commended for their accomplishment. The basic design of the alien walking craft is conveyed in the book. Keeping with the design, they are able to convey emotions to the craft as they commit mayhem. The walkers emit sounds to each other that sound like overloud trumpets, and the ships are able to move their parts in a climatic scene that convey curiosity. Given that this movie is a summer blockbuster and was never supposed to be a psychological thriller, one pretty much has to conclude that it is a job very well done.