Watch War of the Worlds
- PG-13
- 2005
- 1 hr 58 min
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6.5 (455,590)
War of the Worlds is a science-fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise as Ray Ferrier, a divorced dockworker and father of two children, Robbie (Justin Chatwin) and Rachel (Dakota Fanning). The film is loosely based on the 1898 novel of the same name by H.G. Wells and is set in New Jersey, where the family lives. The movie begins with Ray looking after his children while his ex-wife Mary Ann (Miranda Otto) goes on a vacation with her new husband. During a weekend visit, the kids witness strange lightning strikes and thunderstorms that seem to be coming from the ground. As the situation intensifies, Ray and his family are forced to flee the city as enormous alien tripods begin to emerge and rampage across the landscape. The rest of the film follows the family as they try to survive and escape the extraterrestrial invasion, dodging dangers at every turn. Along the way, they meet oddball characters like Ogilvy (Tim Robbins), a wild-eyed survivalist who takes them in for a time, and Harlan (David Alan Basche), a reckless driver who ultimately meets his end. Despite their best efforts, the aliens prove all but unstoppable, and Ray comes to realize that there may be no way for humanity to resist their overwhelming force. The movie ends on a bittersweet note, with the family finally reunited but with the implied knowledge that Earth has been forever changed. One of the most striking things about War of the Worlds is its intense, visceral portrayal of the alien invasion. The tripods are imposing, towering, and seem to move with a seamless grace that belies their size. The sound design is also top-notch, with the comically chilling noise of the aliens' death rays stomach-churningly memorable. Another memorable aspect of the film is its characterizations. Tom Cruise delivers a convincing portrayal of a flawed, frantic everyman who must do everything in his power to keep his family safe. Dakota Fanning is also noteworthy for her excellent performance as the precocious daughter who is forced to grow up and face harsh realities far too early. Overall, War of the Worlds is a powerful and visually stunning film that explores themes of survival, family, and the potential brutality of an unstoppable force. Whether or not you are a fan of science-fiction or action movies, it is a film that is sure to leave an impact. In conclusion, War of the Worlds is a powerful and visually stunning sci-fi movie directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, and Tim Robbins. It is a gripping tale of survival and family that is sure to leave an impact on viewers long after the credits have rolled.