A very entertaining thriller with some really creepy moments, some outstanding visual and sound effects, and some good performances by the characters.

Rating: 10/10 (3 July 2005)

This was an excellent film. I found it to be entertaining and thrilling, which was the intention of the producers. If you are expecting an educational film with no plot holes, then you will be disappointed. If you are expecting a typical Spielberg spectacle, then you will be in for a treat. The visual and audio effects are truly amazing. Not bad for a 7 month project. The tripods are very much like those described in HG Wells book, complete with an ominous war cry and a very convincing death ray. This film pays homage to both the book and the original 1953 film. Gene Barry and Ann Robinson, who starred in the original film, have a cameo at the very end of this film. Tom Cruise, despite his controversial public persona, does an effective acting job here. Dakota Fanning, who plays his daughter, has an Oscar-worthy performance in the film. While the film has some references to 9/11, the terror mainly comes from the realization by the characters that the only thing left to do is escape the onslaught. A very entertaining thriller with some really creepy moments, some outstanding visual and sound effects, and some good performances by the characters.