Movie review: Independence Day: Resurgence

Twenty years after the original invasion, the aliens are back to finish the job. Will Earth's defenses, built from captured alien technology, be enough to save mankind?

Liam Hemsworth (Jake), Jeff Goldblum (David), Jessie Usher (Dylan), Bill Pullman (Pres. Whitmore), Maika Monroe (Patricia), Sela Ward (Pres. Lanford), William Fichtner (Gen. Adams), Judd Hirsch (Julius), Brent Spiner (Dr. Okun).

It has been 20 years since the original alien invasion so appropriately Independence Day: Resurgence brings us up to speed by showing us where the main characters ended up. Once we have the basics the film loops back into roughly the same storyline as the original. It is almost impossible not to spend the rest of the film making comparisons as the plot and characters are so similar. Sadly, this reboot has none of the energy or chemistry found in the original, resulting in a lethargic film that feels like a re-run.

Acting was decent with solid performances by original cast members Goldblum, Pullman, Fichtner, Spiner, and Hirsch all of whom added good quality to the film. Hemsworth and Usher delivered well but never really felt like they were taking things seriously. The remainder of the cast was enjoyable.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are well done and consistent with the original. CGI was pretty good, though there were some ridiculously obvious scale issues and excessive use of aliens removed a lot of the mystery. Dialogue was mediocre, lacking depth and engagement. Sound and soundtrack were solid.

Independence Day: Resurgence ends up being a lackluster remake of the original rather than a continuation of the story. The plot had little variation from the original and added nothing to the franchise. Those who never saw the original may enjoy this one, while everyone else will likely be disappointed.

Despite the mild sexuality, sci-fi violence, disturbing images, and foul language this one should be fine for any teens and above that may find it interesting.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 12.31.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Alien Sci-Fi, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Action Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Adventure, Sci-Fi

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel