Key Takeaways:
* Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise previously partnered for the film War of the Worlds.
* Spielberg based the film on H.G. Wells' classic novel.
* The director had to make changes in his script after seeing Roland Emmerich's film, Independence Day.
How Spielberg Modified His Film After Watching Independence Day
Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise's successful cinematic partnership found its way to an adaptation of HG Wells' The War of the Worlds. However, Spielberg admitted that he had to alter his original script due to certain parallels with Roland Emmerich's popular film, Independence Day.
Spielberg's Martian Invasion Minus Actual Martians
A discussion with the Directors Guild of America (DGA) saw Spielberg detail how his vision of the alien invasion narrative had to shift. Spielberg had always wanted to create a film based on War of the Worlds. However, the release of Independence Day disrupted his plan. Emmerich's Independence Day deals with the same theme of alien invasion, compelling Spielberg to change the angle of his story.
The Unique Perspective of a Deadbeat Father
Spielberg, alongside Tom Cruise and David Koepp, discussed the character of a “deadbeat father” who transitions into a hero to save his kids. Spielberg believed this depiction would connect more with audiences compared to the tale being told from the government personnel's perspective.
Emmerich's Independence Day Impact: A Benchmark in Disaster Films
Independence Day is a key player in Will Smith's filmography, presenting the struggles of a group of survivors after a global alien attack. The film is considered a turning point in Hollywood for large-scale disaster films. Independence Day received mixed reviews initially, but the performances and visual effects made a mark. The film has grossed $817.4 million, making it the second highest-grossing film behind Spielberg's Jurassic Park.
The Spielberg Effect on War of the Worlds
Spielberg was against the idea of aliens arriving in spaceships in his film, War of the Worlds. He had originally planned for Martian cylinders, but decided to reimagine the alien tripods as buried underground. This was a unique change inspired by a desire to differentiate the film from Independence Day.
In his interview with DGA, Spielberg shared insights on the character development of Tom Cruise's role, from being a “deadbeat father” to becoming a heroic figure for his kids in the face of crisis.
The Unique Spielberg Touch Pays Off
Spielberg's film War of the Worlds was welcomed by critics positively and got nominated for Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing at the Oscars. The film amassed $603.9 million globally.
Hence, the unique storytelling perspective and alterations made the film distinctive despite the similar theme in Roland Emmerich's movie. Spielberg's take on War of the Worlds is available on Paramount+, while Independence Day can be streamed on Hulu.
Spielberg's experience stands as a testament to the enduring power of fresh perspectives and nuanced storytelling in the face of potentially overshadowing contemporaries.
