Independence DayThis 1996 blockbuster redefined cheesy popcorn-flicks and ushered in the age of mindless summer entertainment. It revitalized the idea of cinema as a cultural phenomenon by tapping into the collective conscious and creating a film that felt more like an event than an actual story.
The characters here are basically inconsequential, though seeing how all of their lives intersect during this crisis is an enjoyable thematic device. Still, having Bill Pullman play the President of the United States was a patently absurd decision. He wouldn't be qualified to star as himself in his own auto-biography. Regretably, this casting choice seems in line with the stupidity that permeates the entire movie.
That's not to say it's not fun stupidity. When presented as a global event, it's a terrifying and engrossing end-of-the-world scenario that feels somewhat plausible. However, when we're forced to sit through the films pathetic attempts at character development, which is a good portion of the flick, the momentum is brought to a screeching halt. If there's one thing ID4 does insanely well is that it creates a certain energy of both dread and excitement. The fact that the film felt the need to pander to the audience by having characters to root for and relate with was really quite unfortunate. Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum are both amusing as ever, which is good seing as how their exploits make up the heart of the story. Yet, they're both saddled with baggage in the form of ex-wives, stripper fiancees, and irascible jewish fathers who make our main stars less interesting by mere association.
There is some incredible imagery in the film, and many of the battles are undeniably epic in scope. But for every second of unbridled entertainment to be had, they added a dose of pure unadulterated nonsense for good measure. The result is disconcerting and a little distressing, considering the potential that existed within this particular idea. Perhaps I simply demand too much of a sci-fi summer blockbuster. Afterall, Steven Spielberg basically spoiled us with Jurassic Park back in '93. But as long as you don't mind a complete and utter disregard for logic in your typical sci-fi fare, than you're bound to have a good time with Independence Day. Just remind yourself that this was written by Dean Devlin and Roland Emmerich, the minds behind the Godzilla remake and 10,000 BC. In otherwords, brace yourself for inanity.
Rating: B-