Review of The War of the Worlds (1953) by S.r. H — 13 Apr 2015

I loved H.G. Wells's novel, War of the Worlds. So, I really wanted to see the movies based on this awesome novel. And the 1950's film...I honestly didn't like too much. It wasn't awful, I just didn't like what they did with the story.

I understand that filmmakers sometimes need to update a story for a modern audience, but that can also backfire by dating it for future generations. Anyway, I do like some elements. I love the design of the spaceships, and the scene with the alien in the farmhouse.

But the aliens look like a Simon game, I hated Ann Robinson's character, and the lack of isolation with the main character. I was engaged with the writer in the book because he was almost always alone.

Sure, he comes across the priest and the artilleryman, but he doesn't stay with them long, sort of like Alice in Wonderland. Wander alone, come across someone, interact with them, and move on. Here, he always has someone throughout the movie, and she's not very good company, especially when she's screaming her lungs out.

If you enjoy the cheesiness of old Cold War paranoia films, then you'll like this too. But if you want an accurate retelling of Wells's novel, this is not the place.