War of the Worlds (2005)

Spielberg turns H.G. Wells's alien invasion into a post-9/11 survival nightmare — Tom Cruise doesn't save the world, he just tries to save his kids.

Crowd Score: 6.6/10

Who Is It For?

Fans of disaster cinema who want more than spectacle — Spielberg delivers alien invasion as survival horror, shot from a terrified father's perspective. Perfect for viewers who appreciate blockbusters with genuine dread, post-9/11 allegory, and some of the most technically impressive destruction sequences ever filmed. Also essential viewing for anyone who thinks they've seen every alien invasion movie.

Vibe Match

Signs meets Independence Day through a Saving Private Ryan lens

What People Are Saying

I've always had a love and appreciation for the Cruise one, so I don't feel the need for another but if done right I'd watch it.

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Spielberg's was heavily influenced by 9/11 and the war on terror.

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Tim Robbins's character actually says directly that it's 'all about what you see'.

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I think WotW works best as a commentary for the fears of when each adaptation took place. The novel was clearly about colonialism. The radio play had such an impact due to fears of a Nazi invasion in the 30's. George Pal's version commented on fears of the Cold War. Spielberg's was heavily influenced by 9/11 and the war on terror.

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Watch the War of the Worlds movies carefully, and you'll see that they actually do adapt that notion and continually repeat a theme about eyes and seeing (Tim Robbins's character in the 2005 film actually says directly that it's 'all about what you see').

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