Independence Day

Starring: Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch, Margaret Colin, Randy Quaid, Robert Loggia, James Rebhorn, Harvey Fierstein
Directed by: Roland Emmerich
Rating: PG-13
1996

Times Seen:
Tim: 7

Awards:
The Movie Files Movie Championship I: Sweet Sixteen

Summary: Aliens invade the world, and after the initial destruction, only a handful of survivors exist, including the U.S. President (Bill Pullman), a U.S. air force pilot (Will Smith), and a computer expert (Jeff Goldblum). The survivors must now band together to stop the alien invasion, and save the world.

Review:

Tim: I don't care what anyone says about this movie. You could have interrogate me for hours upon hours, brainwash me, it doesn't matter and this will not change- I love this movie. This film is at the very top of my list for the best movies ever made. It may sound silly, but for me- this movie is excellent. The film is just downright fun. Nevermind the plot holes and improbably circumstances, nevermind the silliness of the occasional scene- this movie packs a punch of entertainment that is simply incredible. I've watched this movie countless times, and never seem to tire of it. It has everything I look for in a movie.

The actors in the film are incredible. Bill Pullman is perfect as the President of the U.S. Will Smith is hilarious in this movie, which really skyrocketed him to success- the "Welcome to Earth" line is perfect. I ahve been a fan of Jeff Goldblum ever since seeing him in this movie. Randy Quaid brings a tremendous amount to the film as well- "Hello boys, I'm baaaaack!"- brings tears to my eyes.

I remember vividly the months before this film opened. I'd watch the trailer countless times a day, drooling all over the place. I had a countdown until it opened. I saw this film on July 4, 1996. I purposely waited two days after it first opened so I could see it on Independence Day. This film, in my opinion, is one of the biggest blockbusters of all time, and has earned a place in my memory forever. It ranked as one of the biggest blockbusters ever, and still ranks as one of the highest grossing films of all time.

Perhaps my favorite scene in this movie is Bill Pullman's speech near the end. EVERY SINGLE time I watch it, a shiver runs up my spin. It is that good. The film also has some very patriotic moments, which I love. Who doesn't feel such love for the United States when they are about to fight back, and the pilot in another country gets a message and says, "Its the Americans! They want to launch a counter offensive!" Beautiful. If you haven't seen this movie, get in your car right now, drive to the local video rental place, and pick up a copy. Independence Day is an entertaining gem which I will never tire of. This is pure, big-budget entertainment at its best.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 10



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Men in Black, Armageddon, The Matrix, The Core, The Day After Tomorrow, Stargate