Spielberg Takes On a Classic

Rating: 7/10 (3 August 2005)

"The War of the Worlds" is based on the classic science-fiction story by H.G. Wells. The newest adaptation is directed by Steven Spielberg, and stars Tom Cruise. Instead of Victorian London, the story is now set in modern-day New York. Cruise plays divorced dad Ray Ferrier, who is taking care of his kids for the weekend. Suddenly, the aliens attack, and panic in the street reigns. This movie boasts some very well done special effects. One eye-catching effect is the victims of the aliens being vaporized. Another is the creepy alien probe that goes into Ogilvy's basement. While the special effects make the movie, the story does not keep up with the visuals. The pairing of Spielberg and Cruise was ambitious, but not enough to make a great movie.