Independence Day (1996)
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61% of critics liked it
(56 reviews) -
75% of users liked it
(887,179 ratings)
A group of intrepid humans attempts to save the Earth from vicious extraterrestrials in this extremely popular science-fiction adventure. Borrowing liberally from War of the Worlds, Aliens, and every sci-fi invasion film inbetween, director Roland Emmerich and producer and co-writer Dean Devlin… More A group of intrepid humans attempts to save the Earth from vicious extraterrestrials in this extremely popular science-fiction adventure. Borrowing liberally from War of the Worlds, Aliens, and every sci-fi invasion film inbetween, director Roland Emmerich and producer and co-writer Dean Devlin present a visually slick, fast-paced adventure filled with expensive special effects and large-scale action sequences. The story begins with the approach of a series of massive spaceships, which many on Earth greet with open arms, looking forward to the first contact with alien life. Unfortunately, these extraterrestrials have not come in peace, and they unleash powerful weapons that destroy most of the world's major cities. Thrown into chaos, the survivors struggle to band together and put up a last-ditch resistance in order to save the human race. As this is a Hollywood film, this effort is led by a group of scrappy Americans, including a computer genius who had foreseen the alien's evil intent (Jeff Goldblum), a hot-shot jet pilot (Will Smith), and the President of the United States (Bill Pullman). While some critics objected to the film's lack of originality and lapses in logic, the combination of grand visual spectacle and crowd-pleasing storytelling proved irresistible to audiences, resulting in an international smash hit. ~ Judd Blaise, Rovi
- Rating, Runtime
- PG-13, 2 hr. 25 min.
- Directed By
- Roland Emmerich
- Written By
- Dean Devlin, Roland Emmerich
- Genres
- Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense, Science Fiction & Fantasy
- In Theaters
- Jul 2, 1996 Wide
- On DVD
- Jun 27, 2000
- Studio
- 20th Century Fox
Critic Reviews
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Carol Buckland, CNN.com
Splendidly cheesy entertainment.
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Lisa Schwarzbaum, Entertainment Weekly
It's the first futuristic disaster movie that's as cute as a button. Which, when all the special effects blow over, is what we Americans like in a monster hit.
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David Ansen, Newsweek
If I were a 10-year-old boy, I'd probably think it was the coolest movie going.
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Todd McCarthy, Variety
As unavoidably entertaining as it is hopelessly cornball.
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Rita Kempley, Washington Post
Maybe the moviemakers' mission was to boldly go where everyone in Hollywood has gone before: the bank.
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Jonathan Rosenbaum, Chicago Reader
The earnestness, the effects, and the notion of a whole world forgetting its differences to defeat a common foe carry a certain charm.
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, Hollywood.com
Spending a scant four weeks on script versus 13 months on physical production, as happened here, does have its drawbacks.
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Rob Nelson, City Pages, Minneapolis/St. Paul
Independence Day Restores Order to the Millennium.
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Steve Biodrowski, ESplatter
Basically, this is almost perfect realization of the movie you eagerly anticipated when, as a kid, you saw some poster or coming attractions trailer for a 1950s-style alien invasion movie ...
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James Plath, Movie Metropolis
Where else but America can a drunken crop-duster become a hero by pulling a Slim Pickens and riding a nuclear payload to its target? What a country!
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, Film4
Insanely pompous and brilliantly exhilarating in equal measure.
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Laura Clifford, Reeling Reviews
No matter how ludicrous and coincidental the plot gets, it never takes itself seriously.
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Rob Gonsalves, eFilmCritic.com
Forget government conspiracies about aliens -- what about the entertainment media's conspiracy to persuade America that this movie doesn't suck?
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Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid
No one who wants to see this movie needs me to recommend it to them, but if anyone wants to know, I say stay home and rent one of those other movies on video.
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Betsy Bozdech, Reel.com
In true summer-movie style, the plot is pretty preposterous ... but that doesn't matter. Independence Day succeeds as mainstream entertainment.
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, Time Out
Everything feels anti-climactic after the fireworks, but the moral is clear: it's the end of the world as we know it. And we feel fine.
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Robin Clifford, Reeling Reviews
No brain, no pain, but a heck of a lot of fun.
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Steve Crum, Kansas City Kansan
The most spectacular and intriguing sci-fi action film since the 'Star Wars' trilogy. (published 7-6-96)
Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com
Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)
Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)
Featured Audience Ratings
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Adriel L
It works, for all it is worth, though not much can be said of any depth or realism, it is a sci-fi flick with good old sci-fi goodness. -
Albert K
"Apocalypse 52: Alien Invasion" is what this movie should be called. Roland Emmerich's best movie, which isn't saying much cause he's done the same movie hundreds of times now, but this time, the world is getting destroyed by aliens. So cheesy, but its pretty… More
"Apocalypse 52: Alien Invasion" is what this movie should be called. Roland Emmerich's best movie, which isn't saying much cause he's done the same movie hundreds of times now, but this time, the world is getting destroyed by aliens. So cheesy, but its pretty entertaining nevertheless. -
Film C
Its a good movie, if you like sci-fi action mixed in with will smths humour then you'll very much enjoy this quirky, amusing alien movie! -
Jason R
is there anything better than this movie? the answer, is no. -
Directors C
Apart from the visuals, Independence Day is a god awful film. Its a majorly flawed film and the plot is extremely thin, dull and the whole setup is a rip off of classic 1950's alien films. Determined to be nothing more than a big budget box office smash hit and nothing else.… More
Apart from the visuals, Independence Day is a god awful film. Its a majorly flawed film and the plot is extremely thin, dull and the whole setup is a rip off of classic 1950's alien films. Determined to be nothing more than a big budget box office smash hit and nothing else. Independence day does more than deliver. -
danny d
one of the true sci fi greats of the past 20 years. still one of smiths best films, and definitely emmerich's best. just so much fun. -
xGary X
Devlin and Emmerich are hardly known for their sophistication and subtlety, and this big budget B-movie certainly won't change any minds on that score. It follows the summer blockbuster formula to the letter, but it is done with enough tongue in cheek humour to make it a hugely… More
Devlin and Emmerich are hardly known for their sophistication and subtlety, and this big budget B-movie certainly won't change any minds on that score. It follows the summer blockbuster formula to the letter, but it is done with enough tongue in cheek humour to make it a hugely enjoyable experience. The action is all very gung-ho and flag waving (I'm still not sure if the president's "Independence Day" speech is meant to be taken seriously, but it always raises a laugh from me!) but thrillingly done; the dogfight through a canyon is as exciting as Hollywood action gets, and you can't help but cheer for Randy Quaid's boozy abductee in the climactic battle. Jeff Goldblum is at his least irritating and has some fantastic banter with his crotchety Jewish father played to perfection by veteran comic Judd Hirsch. The characters are all walking cliches and the characterisation just a load of soapy melodrama but it's little more than mercifully brief window dressing for the rollercoaster ride of the alien invasion. The ground breaking effects still look good today and it's really good fun if you don't take it too seriously; big, dumb and a lot of fun. -
Tyler K
Nice work for a movie about an alien invasion. This, of course, isn't the most original alien abduction movie around, but it sure is a good one. It's actually not a thriller, either, but instead, an action flick about the war against aliens on July 4th, 1996. Nice effects,… More
Nice work for a movie about an alien invasion. This, of course, isn't the most original alien abduction movie around, but it sure is a good one. It's actually not a thriller, either, but instead, an action flick about the war against aliens on July 4th, 1996. Nice effects, too. It was like War of the Worlds' (2005) tripods, and Star Wars' Death Star, in the fact that the movie's effects ultimately succeed in the size of the Mothership. The story is not very great, but it's well enough for a decent action film for the night. -
Eric A
Thought this was the coolest movie as a 2nd grader. Still think it's cool today. -
Sergio G
A classic US Hollywood. Is SO ridiculous that is funny. The idea of an alien invasion, kept rusting at the back of Hollywood studios until Ronald Emerich brought it back. Amazing and huge spaceships that reminded me that Star Destroyer at the beggining in Star Wars. Again US save us… More
A classic US Hollywood. Is SO ridiculous that is funny. The idea of an alien invasion, kept rusting at the back of Hollywood studios until Ronald Emerich brought it back. Amazing and huge spaceships that reminded me that Star Destroyer at the beggining in Star Wars. Again US save us all. Even the president fly in combat and beat the ETs. Why everyone want us to convince that ETs are salvages like us? I don't get it. But stil is fun to watch, Will Smith is the man, Vivica Fox looks WOW, and the special effects are something to remember. -
Alexander D
A slow-moving, good alien invasion film. -
Michael E
I gave this film a second watch recently and i changed my mind on it. its fun and an entertaining popcorn action film to watch -
Jeff "
Of all the films that Roland Emmerich has made Independence Day has got to be his best film. Spaceships enter Earth's atmosphere early July and to the awe of Earth's population, they're wondering what is going on. It's soon revealed that the Alien invaders set out… More
Of all the films that Roland Emmerich has made Independence Day has got to be his best film. Spaceships enter Earth's atmosphere early July and to the awe of Earth's population, they're wondering what is going on. It's soon revealed that the Alien invaders set out to destroy everything as they start destroying every city. The film is an update almost of space invader films and it's offers nothing really new to the formula, but one can't deny that this is an exciting and thrilling film that offers awesome visuals as Earth's cities are destroyed and mankind struggles to survive. At times the film seems to struggle with it's acting, and some acting decisions are questionable such as Bill Pullman as President Whitmore. I found his pre battle speech corny and quite frankly embarassing. For me it was typical Americanization of how great the U.S is. But all that aside, Independence Day is a pure popcorn film that is very entertaining, fun, visually astounding too. Sure Emmerich is really a bad director (he's made three good films, and it includes this one), he crafts a film that sets out to entertain you and despite the flaws found within the film, ID4 is one action packed Sci Fi alien invasion film that is mean, thrilling and pulse pounding. Since this films release, Emmerich has had a checkered career, releasing few good films, and when he does release something it usually follows in the footsteps of Independence Day. Of all the disaster themed films, ID4 remains his best film. -
Kase V
Good stuff from the actors and Emmerich. Very fun movie. The blockbuster does not mean it's amazing though. Emmerich's movies are just never 100% my style. Too focused on visuals. Style over substance is not always best. -
KJ P
Independance Day suffers from a slightly long running time, but is drastically saved by a stunning conclusion. Every character is enjoyable, and the emotion flows thoroughly. I severely enjoyed this film, however, I need to take a break and it will be while before I come to watch it… More
Independance Day suffers from a slightly long running time, but is drastically saved by a stunning conclusion. Every character is enjoyable, and the emotion flows thoroughly. I severely enjoyed this film, however, I need to take a break and it will be while before I come to watch it once again. -
Brad W
Long and boring with a few great visuals -
Bently L
"Independence Day", also known as "ID4", is probably the best example of mindless, big budget, popcorn Hollywood science fiction action films. The story is okay but isn't all that sturdy. However, the effects are freakin' explosive and amazing! The… More
"Independence Day", also known as "ID4", is probably the best example of mindless, big budget, popcorn Hollywood science fiction action films. The story is okay but isn't all that sturdy. However, the effects are freakin' explosive and amazing! The story follows different American citizens as they try to fight for survival as aliens invade the Earth on the 4th of July. Will Smith plays a very likable pilot who is bent on destroying the mothership and Jeff Goldblum plays his trusty ally. I pretty much watch this movie just for the aliens, SFX, and Will Smith, one of my favorite actors. The story is not that great, like I stated earlier. However, this is one of my favorite movies and I enjoy it everytime! I do enjoy a good alien invasion flick. That is why I'm anticipating the new movie, "Battle: Los Angeles". It looks like a more sophisticated remake of this. However, I will always enjoy "ID4"! Mindless fun for all! I'll be the first in line when the sequel is released. "If this isn't an insanely beautiful woman, I'm hangin' up." -
Martin S
The movie started out well. But then the american patriotism took over -
Steven C
The least of Roland Emmerich's pictures because it's just unrelentingly stupid for 2 1/2 hours. The level of cheese is just so high that it can't be justified, even by Emmerich's standards; which is saying something. But this is a pop culture classic from the 90s… More
The least of Roland Emmerich's pictures because it's just unrelentingly stupid for 2 1/2 hours. The level of cheese is just so high that it can't be justified, even by Emmerich's standards; which is saying something. But this is a pop culture classic from the 90s so it has its goofy charms. It was also a milestone in special effects and summer tent-pole releases so you get some nostalgia while watching it. Anyway, it doesn't hold up well to today's standards. -
Jameson W
I wonder how many times this will be shown on TV this week?
Cast
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Will Smithas Capt. Steven Hiller -
Bill Pullmanas President Thomas J. Whitmore -
Jeff Goldblumas David Levinson
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Mary McDonnellas Marilyn Whitmore -
Judd Hirschas Julius Levinson -
Margaret Colinas Constance Spano
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Jay Acovoneas Area 51 Guard -
Adam Baldwinas Major Mitchell -
Kimberly Beckas Housewife
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John Capodiceas Mario -
Greg Collinsas Military Aide -
Deenie Dakotaas Boomer
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Malcom Danareas Intellectual on Roof -
Thomas F. Duffyas Lieutenant -
Jerry Dunphyas Himself
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Bobby Hoseaas Commanding Officer -
Rance Howardas Chaplain -
Jana Marie Huppas SETI Tech Three
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Lisa Jakubas Alicia Casse -
Tim Kelleheras Technician -
Carlos Lacamaraas Radar Operator
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Dan Lauriaas Commanding Officer -
Robert Loggiaas Gen. William Grey -
Nelson Mashitaas Japanese Tech
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Jon Mathewsas Thomson -
Jack Mooreas Mechanic -
John Bennett Perryas Secret Serviceman
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Jeff Phillipsas B-2 Pilot -
Jim Piddockas Reginald -
Robert Pineas Chief of Staff
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David Pressmanas Whitmore's Aide -
George Putnamas Himself -
Randy Quaidas Russell Casse
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James Rebhornas Albert Nimziki -
Elston Ridgleas Soldier -
Raphael Sbargeas Commander/Tech
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Pat Skipperas Redneck -
Bill Smitrovichas Capt. Watson -
Brent Spineras Dr. Brakish Okun
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Lisa Staras Woman on Roof -
John Storeyas Dr. Isaacs -
Mark Thompsonas Video Newscaster
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Lyman Wardas Secret Service Guy -
Mirron E. Willisas Aide -
Michael Wintheras Co-Worker #3
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Harry Connick Jr.as Capt. Jimmy Wilder -
Harvey Fiersteinas Marty Gilbert -
Barry Nolanas Himself
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Frank Novakas Teddy -
Frank Welkeras Special Vocal Effects -
Anthony Crivelloas Lincoln
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Vivica A. Foxas Jasmine Dubrow -
Robin Grothas Flagstaff News Anchor -
Richard Pachorekas LAPD Helicopter Pilot
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Kevin Sifuentesas Tank Commander -
Richard Speight Jras Ed -
Ross Elliot Bagleyas Dylan
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James Duvalas Miguel Casse -
Andrew Keeganas Older Boy -
Mae Whitmanas Patricia Whitmore
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Devon Gummersallas Philip -
Leland Orseras Techy/Med Asst #1 -
Kiersten Warrenas Tiffany
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Thom Barryas SETI Tech Two -
Joe Fowleras Reporter -
John McLaughlinas Himself
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Randy Oglesbyas Mechanic -
Ross Lacyas Aide -
John Bradleyas Lucas
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Giuseppe Andrewsas Troy Casse -
Fred Barnesas Himself -
James Wongas SETI Tech One
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Wayne Wildersonas Area 51 Technician -
Adam Tomeias Sailor -
Sayed Badreyaas Arab Pilot
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Eleanor Cliftas Herself -
Joyce Cohenas Kim Peters -
Jack Germondas Himself
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Steve Giannellias Radar Technician -
James J. Joyceas Master C.P.O. -
Morton Kondrackeas Himself
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Carlos Laraas Farmer Kid -
Michael G. Moertlas Thief -
Mike Monteleoneas Butler
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Julie Moranas Entertainment Tonight Reporter -
Marisa Morellas Co-Worker 2 -
Vivian Palermoas Technician/Medical Assistant
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Matt Pashkowas 2nd Officer -
Eric Paskelas Radar Technician -
Lee Straussas Elvis Fanatic
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Troy Willisas Secret Serviceman -
Eric Michael Zeeas Northridge Field Reporter -
Brooks Arthuras Trucker on Roof
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