A 'Fun with Friends' Film

Rating: 6/10 (21 March 2007)

This is not the best movie in the world. In fact, this is not even Oscar material at all. However, it's a fun ride the whole way through. It's also a great movie for watching while you're hanging with your friends.
War of the Worlds starts with a divorced man (Tom Cruise) getting his kids for the weekend from his ex-wife. He has a son (Justin Chatwin) and a daughter (Dakota Fanning), who, unfortunately, love to make him feel like crap. Then, the aliens come out of the ground after a major lightning storm, and suddenly this dysfunctional family is stuck together as they race for their lives.
The problem with this movie is that it never achieves what it sets out to do. It certainly seems like Spielberg is trying very hard to make a real family sub-plot with this, but I just couldn't understand why the kids hated their father so much. To me they just came off as spoiled brats. Well played spoiled brats, but brats none-the-less.
Dakota Fanning truly does shine. She is definitely one of the most promising young actresses out there. Though her character is not the most likable, she acts the character out with style. Justin Chatwin also does a fine job as the son. And though I hate to admit it, Tom Cruise does a very nice job with this film. He handles the lead role very well, and you really do feel for him. Now, if only he would get over Scientology....
War of the Worlds is a fine example of a summer box office hit. In that element, it did exactly what it was supposed to. No, it's not an amazing film, not a ground-breaking film; but it's fun to watch. That's why I call it a 'Fun with Friends' film. Next time you and your friends are getting together for a night together, pop this one into the DVD player. It will be perfect for the night. 6/10 stars!
Jay Addison