They stole the designs

Rating: 3/10 (10 December 2005)

So we watch this mediocre film, and the beasties look a bit familiar. A little research and - yup! The tripods were nicked from Roger Dean of Yes album cover fame, who designed and painted them in...1977. I couldn't believe the BS I heard listening to the movie production crew telling of their originality. I hope Dean & co. sues. Check it for yourself: find the Roger Dean book Magnetic Storm.
As for the small critters - gee, somebody liked Independence Day, huh? The same face on different body.
As for the story - It'd be tough to subdue 4 + billion people ONE AT A TIME. Hard to believe Spielberg directed this.