Review of Independence Day (1996) by Filipeneto — 12 Feb 2018

When disasters call for Americanism.

In this film, directed by Roland Emmerich (the man who likes to destroy the earth again and again and again), the Earth is threatened by giant alien ships that come out of nowhere in the sky, covering the major cities on the planet. The first attacks confirm the worst expectations: they are hostile. It's the opportunity of "Uncle Sam" to save the world from bad guys in full holiday of July 4th. From cast we can detach Will Smith, Bill Pullman and Mary McDonnell, respectively in the role of an Air Force airman, the U.S. President and his wife.

This film addresses a theme that recurs in the film: aliens, and the possibility of they want to invade us. The question is what we would have so interesting to arouse that desire. The film also raises another question: although the film is American, why are Americans always the heroes of such films? The answer is simple: because only then these films can be used as propaganda to United States and all they represent. And if doubts exist of that see the title itself: the "independence day" has nothing to do with aliens but with the holiday of U.S. independence declaration. The way it's portrayed the US president himself also helps to see the "hidden" nature of this film.

Although the actors fail to surprise and the script aren't innovative (even recalls, partially, the H.G. Wells novel "War of the Worlds"), the film becomes interesting for the visual and special effects, which earned the Oscar for this category. Also the sound effects deserve a very positive note. Therefore, sci-fi and special effects lovers: this film was made entirely for you, especially if you are American.