A superb film that sticks close to its source material...

Rating: 10/10 (29 July 2005)

Spielberg should be applauded for his vision of H.G Wells' martian invasion epic. Rid your memory of the American jingoistic mess that was Independence Day (1996), this film is on another level.
It seems obvious that Spielberg wasn't just going to make a film about an invasion, but also concentrate on mans struggle against man, battling the martians as well as each other. This is exemplified in the scene where Ray (Tom Cruise) and his children are being attacked in order for an angry mob to steal the only working car in the area that Ray happens to possess. Although these are important scenes, I do think the film maybe concentrated for too long on these scenes, and lost some of its impact. After the initial attack by the 'tripods' they aren't seen again for about 20 minutes or so, while we see the aftermath of the attack.
The look and the design of the 'tripods', again is fantastic, brought up to date for the 21st century. They are dark and menacing, wait until you hear the noise they make...unforgettable.
The acting performances are all excellent, particularly Dakota Fanning (the young girl) and Tom Cruise - who seems to be turning into Spielberg's Favorite at the moment.
Spielberg is often criticised for making his films too sentimental, including too much "schmaltz", as we can see in many of his family oriented films. Thankfully, this is kept to a minimum in War Of The Worlds.
I also hear of some deleted scenes which were not included in the theatrical release. According to reports, there is a scene where the tripods are pulling people out of buildings, lets hope its included on the DVD release in a Directors Cut.
Overall this is a superb film, which is only really let down by the slow pace which occurs after about 15 minutes have passed, thankfully the story picks up pace until it reaches the (slightly truncated in my view) ending.
Well recommended