War Of The Worlds - Blew me away!!

Rating: 8/10 (3 July 2005)

I remember reading the original novel by H.G Wells when I was at school, and although it was set in Victorian Surrey, rather than America, the film still allowed the audience to be drawn into the lives of the characters... without ruining the content and in turn portraying it in a modern way which more could relate to.
I particularly like the way the audience is starved from information like an explanation into why this is happening. In films like this in the past there is always a scientific outlook a look into the aliens... for example in 'Independence Day' there were them scenes where they were at Area 51 researching the Aliens, and attempting to contact them. But no not in this film... it is all out war... and not romanticised in any way at all... even the Tripods look menacing not the cutesy U.F.O's but towering indestructible machines bigger than anything we have. I think it works very well and I truefully disagree with simondix's comment it is well directed, and at times truly magical. I noticed a few amazing perspectives shown in filming, for instance in the scene where the Ferrier's are escaping from the Tripod attack in the people carrier, the shot looked to the side and all the destruction behind them before merging back to the expression of pure fear from Ray (Tom Cruise). The lighting brought a lot to the film also, along with the musical score which all seemed to blend seamlessly. I would watch this film again, because I believe I would notice something different each time I viewed it.
Tom Cruise's performance was quite fantastic, and I can't honestly say I rate him that highly as an actor but credit where credits due... although Dakota Fannings performance was by far the best in the film.
I found myself truly emotional in many instances... it really was amazing seeing something as powerful as American refugees walking the streets in their millions with boards looking for loved ones, and the army powerless to defeat such a power that the Tropods possessed. I found my mouth wide open at occasions by the sheer effects and destruction... wow!! I know everyone will have different views of this film, and they are entitled to them... but take a look further than the script, and look at the overall film, score, screenplay and setting, then say its rubbish... I doubt you will