Although somewhat lackuster at times, 'War of the Worlds' still remains a technical knockout with a chilling atmosphere

Rating: Null/10 (1 July 2005)

War of The Worlds Dock-worker Ray(Cruise) has never had a close relationship with either of his kids. They are at his house for the weekend when a sudden storm erupts, then large alien-infested tri-pods begin to emerge from the ground after lightening strikes there numerous times, killing many people. Ray runs with his children. But he soon realizes they're under attack... and if they want to survive, they'll have to fight...
War of the Worlds... directed by Steven Spielberg.
All the "summer movie qualifications" are present in the newest look at the world under attack by aliens. In this film, these qualifications are pumped up to a maximum level, with some of the best effects to hit the screen in a while. Director Steven Spielberg is at the top of his game here, bringing us a variety of explosive stunts and interesting camera angles. The actors are also at the top of their game here as well, Cruise handling his part well, Fanning showing off her emotions once again here quite well.
You might be wondering the part in my summary that says "lackuster". What did I mean by that? Well, by the end, we've seen what these tri-pods can do, and we know the humans will win. The aliens attacking every place Ray appears at becomes a stretch by the finale.
These negative points aside, 'War of the Worlds' a chilling look at the world under attack, with spectacular effects, a well-visualized atmosphere, and edge-of-your-seat fun throughout. A perfect example of a summer movie. 3 from 4 PG13: intense sequences of sci-fi action/violence, disturbing images and language.