A good screen version of H.G. Wells classic

Rating: 7/10 (1 July 2005)

Having heard the radio play I knew the outcome, but those I've talked to haven't, so this movie would be even more exciting/intense for them. It's certainly NOT FOR KIDS though - I don't know how it only has a PG-13 rating. Tom Cruise covers his daughters eyes and does what he can to protect her from the slaughter - both literally and viewing it. Parents in the real world should heed the caution that accompanies the rating.
ILM does their usual great job with effects, and there's nothing wrong with the acting, but I confess I'm getting tired of seeing the same actors (Cruise in this example) on screen over and over in so many movies. It takes away from the intrigue when you know the character is going to survive the whole movie. That's probably one of the aspects that made the first "Lord of the Rings", the first "Star Wars", the first "Matrix", and Spielbergs own "E.T." such great movies. "War of the Worlds" feels a bit like "Minority Report", although upon seeing the aliens it seemed more like an "Independence Day" sequel.