Closer to the Book

Rating: 6/10 (11 August 2005)

I have a very fond place in my heart for George Pal's The War of the Worlds made during the golden age of science fiction. I was somewhat apprehensive upon hearing a remake was in the works, but many of my fears were allayed hearing the film would be directed by none other than Stevin Spielberg. Well, overall, this remake was a quality film yet I have some ambivalent feelings toward it. Spielberg does what he does best: lots of great suspense and solid storytelling, awesome, state-of-the-art special effects, wonderful music by John Williams, and an outwardly satisfying film...for the most part. Actually, this film was somewhat of a letdown for me. Now before you misunderstand, I did think it was a decent film. It was definitely much closer to the spirit of the book. The special effects...WOW! When you see the spaceships and the Martians, they look stunning and horrifying. I also like the way that Spielberg stays in touch with the common man rather than, say the president ala Independence Day(a film I ultimately enjoyed more). What I didn't take to was the kids as protagonists again...a typical Spielberg device but one that really doesn't work nearly as well in this film. Dakota Fanning as Rachel does a serviceable job in a rather stereotypical role as the frightened out of her wits pre-adolescent. Justin Chatwin; however, as the obnoxious, rebellious teen at odds with a father he feels antipathy for is far less satisfying. I didn't like the kid at all. Tom Cruise is acceptable at best...and really that is rather generous. Spielberg might have added a bit more depth to these characters. And I really am puzzled at Spielberg's use of the two stars from the original Pal film: Gene Barry and Ann Robinson. If you blink, you will miss them. They are not even on screen three seconds. C'mon Steve. Couldn't you give them just a bit more screen time? With what they have, you might have well not used them at all.But these acting concerns aside for a film effects oriented, this remake is a quality film but definitely not one of its director's best.