Independence Day

Year: 1996

Grade: C+

Country: USA

Director: Emmerich

Review

flag waving blockbuster that got really overhyped. it’s good because the sfx stand up fairly well and the all-star cast gives it an experiential breadth that serves one of the film’s themes (unity) well. we’re able to be involved with the many characters, in part, because they’re stars. i’d certainly rather see great acting and writing (think of other films with many characters – short cuts, magnolia – that did it well) than just throwing a bunch of stars at the problem, but i guess it works well enough for the kind of film it is. it’s got an abundance of plot holes and it’s not what i would call high art – in other words: don’t watch it with a skeptical eye and you’ll be fine.