Spielberg at his best...why the narrow mindedness

Rating: 8/10 (2 July 2005)

Firstly, I want to make very simple points about War of the Worlds. First, who cares whether Tom Cruise is as Scientologist, in love, or jumping on couches. He gives a damn good performance, enough said. Dakota Fanning should be nominated for an Oscar...isn't it about time the Academy had a best child actor award? The film is not about how the aliens attacked the entire world, that was one of Day After Tomorrow's NUMEROUS weaknesses. It was spread way to thin. War of the Worlds is extremely tight knit. It follows the Ferrier family and no one else. We see only what they see, a brilliant decision. This movie could have been an effects blowout, and instead Spielberg turned it into a haunting tale of family and what would you do to protect them. The special effects that weren't minimized, were breathtaking. The parallels to our present day terrorist situation were well thought-out and placed well. And, unlike one review I read in the Nashville Rage, there was plenty of commentary on the selfishness of human society. The scene where the Ferriers were driving to the ferry and having their car mobbed was one of the most poignant scenes in the film. And the peanut butter scene was a perfect addition to show just how inept Ray Ferrier felt as father. The fact that they book ended the story with the novel was perfect, homage to the great story that has inspired many remakes. What made the movie great was the fact that Spielberg did make it his own, and without reservation. While the film is not perfect (no film is), it is the best film of 2005 so far. There were a few goofs, and you have to love the camcorder. Sometimes, I think the film makers make the goofs on purpose just so we can find them. 8/10