"Gripping"

Rating: 7/10 (23 August 2005)

War of the worlds is a brilliantly but together piece of cinema. It has a gripping atmosphere with a strong performance from Tom Cruise and equally sensitive performances from his caricatures' off springs. I have to say that I thought the 12 rating was a bit of a surprise, this film had enough suggestive material to send the creative minded into frenzy. I have to admit that I didn't know that much about the whole war of the world's concept. I'd heard the odd snippet of Richard Burton doing the voice over for the musical piece. Nice to here Morgan Freeman adding his unmistakable tone to the beginning of this roller-coaster. The one thing in particular that stood out for me was that the story was based solely around Tom Cruise and his family. There was none of this Independence Day rubbish about America battling the alien invaders and showing the rest of the world how it's done. This film is brilliant and had me on the edge of my seat for the duration. So much so that when the end came I was slightly disappointed. The film just ends with very little explanation. That is, I have to say, the only criticism I have. A truly enjoyable film, with a great performance from Tom Cruise and Spielberg back to his best.