The new Steven Spielberg movie is out - "War Of The Worlds." It is is based on the 1898 H.G. Wells novel of the same name. But this one is set in modern day New York City, Boston, and the New England countryside.
There is one word that best describes this movie: Spectacular!! From the creepy aliens to the Armageddon-like landscapes to the death rays, and mass destruction of cities, the special effects are impressive and compelling. The acting is not as spectacular, except for Dakota Fanning, but it is quite adequate and doesn't hurt the movie.
The thing that makes this a terrific movie, besides the effects, which are worth the price of a ticket in and of themselves, is the way Spielberg keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the film. There is never a dull moment. From when the cameras begin to roll, and we first see Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, and their family, the tension builds. Spielberg grabs you and never lets go. In that sense, it is like the first time you saw Raiders of the Lost Ark, except this movie is dead serious. No camp. No jokes. No comic relief. Grim, taut, suspenseful, gut-wrenching, panic-inducing drama! With the exception of possibly one scene, this movie is all very plausible, unlike most alien invasion films of the past. It does effectively create the sense that it is really happening and you are there for most of the movie, until near the very end.
It is difficult to compare with other movies, since it is not the best plot, or best acting, and the character delineation and development is not the best, either. But having said that, it is adequate on all those counts, as well. But any movie than can keep you on the edge of your seat for 2 full hours, can not be said to be less than an impressive piece of film-making.
Bottom line: "War of the Worlds" is a "Must-See" movie!!
JayBee
