Synopsis

Ray Ferrier, a dockworker and neglectful father, is forced to protect his two children when towering alien machines emerge from beneath the Earth and begin destroying civilization. As panic spreads across the United States, Ray leads Rachel and Robbie through collapsing cities, desperate crowds, and deadly encounters while searching for safety and a way to reunite with their mother.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film is a contemporary adaptation of H.G. Wells' 1898 novel, relocating the story from Victorian England to the United States and presenting the invasion through one family's experience.

• The production was mounted as a large-scale effects project with Industrial Light & Magic handling much of the alien machinery and destruction. The filmmakers emphasized practical locations and physical debris to give the digital effects a more grounded appearance.

• Cinematographer Janusz Kaminski used a deliberately harsh, desaturated visual style to reinforce the film's horror atmosphere and its focus on frightened civilians rather than military spectacle.

• Principal photography took place over 73 days in locations that included California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Virginia.

• The film received Academy Award nominations for Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing, and Best Sound Mixing.

• Released in the United States on June 29, 2005, the film became a major commercial success, earning more than $603 million worldwide against an estimated $132 million production budget.