[Elspode]

It is official. Steven Spielberg is the reigning living king of sci-fi film. Sorry, Mr. Lucas.

I just saw War of the Worlds today, and although my sci-fi fan status might have colored my judgement somewhat, I am prepared to declare this newest version of HG Wells' classic novel Spielberg's finest film ever.

For fans of the book, the story is much closer in feel than was the 50's George Pal version. For fans of the George Pal film, there are numerous nods of affection and respect for this seminal invasion film, culminating in the end-of-the-film appearance of Gene Barry and Ann Robinson (hero and heroine of the the original film) as the grandparents of astoundingly talented child star Dakota Fanning's character.

Although I am not a huge fan of Tom Cruise, I must give grudging kudos for his performance in this film. His portrayal of regular-guy non-custodial dad Ray is the centerpoint upon which this spectacularly frightening film turns. Indeed, for the faint of heart, The War of the Worlds must surely be one of the most frightening films to be released in decades. Watching entire cities destroyed by the alien tripod machines as frantic refugees desperately try to evade and survive the advancing enemy is real enough that I found myself twitching uncomfortably in my seat more than once.

There are many changes and adaptations from both book and original film, but all are excellently rendered.

Go see this movie. Seriously.