Brilliant Re-telling of a Tiimeless Tale

Rating: 10/10 (18 September 2006)

For those people familiar with the novel, I think you will find this an adaptation which remains faithful to the spirit, message and most of the plot of the original, whilst at the same time bringing the setting up to date (and changing the location to the USA.) It's played absolutely straight, with no "wisecracking" or out of place humour, and is all the more terrifying for it. The effects are impressive and frightening. And the characters and performances absolutely highlight the likely outcome of such a disaster, whether it be aliens, terrorists or natural.
What makes this story is even more frightening is today's "me-first" generation - Should any major disaster occur on this scale, how long will it be before civilisation collapses? How tolerant and selfless will the average 21st Century citizen be when his or her neighbour needs help? When their home, family, life, existence are all threatened? I believe the scenes of panic shown here are absolutely accurate, and make me realise just who the most dangerous enemy is.
A roller-coaster of a film, with a real heart and a valuable message - for those who care to look for it.