Spielberg Could've Done Better!

Rating: 7/10 (5 July 2005)

War of the Worlds is a good blockbuster movie, but I was disappointed because it could've been a lot better.
The story had its flaws. The ending in particular, was abrupt and lame. It made sense, but I preferred a darker ending for our weak human race. Just think about it for a while - these aliens, far more technologically advanced and intelligent than we are, are so close to taking over Earth when they get defeated - by bacteria and microscopic organisms. You'd think the aliens would have thought about that when they were planning millions of years for their little takeover. In the end the real heroes of the movie were microscopic organisms - please... Furthermore, the story didn't focus a lot on Ferrier's family as much as I would've liked. Most of the time it focused on the action and invasion rather than the family issues. The ending resolved all these family issues, particularly the one between Ferrier and his son, but I had to ask why? What made Ferrier and his son love each other again? Something was lacking.
The acting and characters were at least better than the story. Tom Cruise delivers an excellent performance as Ray Ferrier, clearly defining a struggling father trying to bring his family together in the midst of a great disaster. Dakota Fanning is enchanting; War of the Worlds was a way for her to act out fear pretty damn well. Justin Chatwin as Robbie Ferrier was good, but his character was annoying and stupid. What was up with his hero complex? Why risk your life just for looking at the aliens? His teenage rebellion was ultimately agitating too... GROW UP, kid, it's an alien invasion! War of the Worlds does have its strengths. Action and special effects are the highlight here, and they do satisfy. I was blown away by the imagery. Steven Spielberg knows how to paint the picture of destruction, doom, and mayhem, and it helps that you have a $125 million budget for some beautiful special effects. There isn't a dull moment, trust me.
Conclusion - War of the Worlds is cool, but it doesn't reach the depth it could've reached. Problems with characters and the story hinder it a bit, but it could've been a masterpiece if those two elements were up to the challenge. Watch it for the action and visuals, but if you're expecting something more, then you'll be disappointed. At most this is a beautiful popcorn flick.