War of the Worlds is a 2025 American science fiction thriller directed by Rich Lee, based on H.G. Wells’ classic 1898 novel of the same name. The film stars Ice Cube, Eva Longoria, and Clark Gregg, among others. It was released by Universal Pictures exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on July 30, 2025.
From the very first scene, we meet the main character, Will Radford (Ice Cube), a Homeland Security cyber-analyst working for the government. Ice Cube brings his signature charisma and intensity to the role, portraying a man burdened with the weight of the entire planet on his shoulders. He grounds the film with a strong and relatable protagonist who isn’t just fighting for survival but also facing complex social and emotional challenges. His portrayal adds depth and nuance to the character, making Will a compelling figure throughout the story.
The concept is quiet a unique storytelling style unfolding almost entirely through screens, surveillance feeds, and livestreams. While some parts felt a bit choppy, I appreciate the willingness to experiment with this fresh approach within the familiar, often overdone, alien-invasion doomsday genre. Moreover, this technique adds a real-time, immersive feel, making viewers feel as if they’re right there in the middle of the chaos.
The film’s pacing is relentless, keeping the tension high from start to finish, though some viewers might find the plot somewhat predictable and the performances occasionally lackluster. Despite these flaws, what truly stands out is the movie’s effort to explore themes of community, resilience, and sacrifice, adding a layer of contemporary relevance that goes beyond typical sci-fi action fare.
Overall, while it may not reinvent the wheel, War of the Worlds (2025) delivers a solid, action-packed reboot that effectively modernizes a classic story for a new generation.
