A very good interpretation from a master storyteller

Rating: 9/10 (2 July 2005)

First thing to say is that this is a very good interpretation of the book. I think it remains very true to the feel of the book, obviously the time-line and country is different but the precept is the same. The worlds biggest power overwhelmed easily by superior forces and the confusion and panic that ensues. I think the way Spielberg makes us realise the way we take things around us for granted and that in an instant that can all change was superb, one minute Ferrier is watching a lightning storm and maybe 30mins later he is running for his life not knowing what has happening was great. The tripods were brilliant and true to the book and the combination of Ogilvy, the curate and the artilleryman in Tim Robbins character was genius as far as I was concerned. Also Ferriers determination to shield his daughter from the horrors was a nice human touch. In closing I would advise people to read H G Wells original book as Spielberg has obviously done, listen to Jeff Waynes Musical Version (very loud!) just re-released and watch the film.
The best thing about the film is that Spielberg keeps the focus on the characters and the emotions they are going through and ONLY uses special effects where appropriate, for example the battle scene on the hill could of been a major use of special effects with the images of war going on but you are left with being positioned just below the brow of the hill only able to hear the noise and see the flashes whilst the camera focus on the people and their reactions so you are left only with your imagination to fill in the detail. Very good A+