What Made Independence Day So Special? (Updated)

Many years ago, when INDEPENDENCE DAY (ID4) opened in American theatres on the Fourth of July 1996, moviegoers were optimistic about seeing an alien invasion that threatened humanity with extinction. There's no denying that this great movie pays tribute to the classic B-grade sci-fi invasion films. Although cheesy, fun, patriotic, and lacking in story, ID4 was the definitive blockbuster that set the benchmark for summer blockbusters. It also relaunched the disaster movie trend, which had been dormant since the early 80s, even though Twister did it first in the same year as ID4.

Upon its release, it received widespread acclaim for its special effects, propelling Will Smith to bona fide stardom. However, it received criticism for its thin plot and character development, branded as stereotypical and generally dense. It also established Roland Emmerich's directional credibility. He became synonymous with big-budget disaster movies and would direct a few more like The Day After Tomorrow and 2012. The revitalised subgenre would soon spawn other films, such as Dante's Peak, Volcano, Deep Impact, Armageddon, and San Andreas.

The timing of this movie analysis coincides with the DVD and Blu-ray release of the lacklustre sequel, Independence Day: Resurgence. Allow me to discuss what made ID4 so beloved, focusing on four of its ceremonial aspects/moments.

#4. Presidential Speech

The movie can be a little absurd, but it has its moments. In a motivational and uplifting presidential speech, President Whitmore addresses the nation, explaining that they are now facing a common enemy, obliteration, and will unite in a final desperate effort to fight for humanity's freedom. He inspires hope and faith in his fellow citizens by saying, "We will not go quietly into the night!" and "We will not vanish without a fight!" Along with the patriotic music in the background and Bill Pullman's performance, this scene of the speech makes you feel that there is hope left in humanity and that, as long as people work together, it can make a difference.

#3. Music

I have never been an avid listener of David Arnold's music in the entire film catalogue, except for this movie. It aligns with the movie's patriotic theme and intensifies the scene's mood. A soundtrack can complement a film, enhancing the emotions you experience while watching a scene. I am happy to say the score in this film was perfect. All moments evoke feelings and impact your mood. It aligns with the story's events and the character development.




#2. Special Effects

As you know, the special effects were an opportunity to bring the spectacle to life. ID4 did it with scenes including the dogfight sequences and the gigantic mothership destroying the White House. These were the very techniques that amplified the film's impact. The destruction of the White House is the main focus of the film's advertising campaigns on posters and still images, and is one of the iconic money shots. It was one of the few movies to utilise physical effects with a modest amount of CGI.




#1. Will Smith

Last but not least, the top highlight of ID4 was Will Smith's acting. Sure, the film featured a top-notch cast of Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, Randy Quaid, and Judd Hirsch. Will Smith takes a standout role. Without him, there would be no I Am Legend, Men in Black, I, Robot, Ali, and Suicide Squad. His performance was quite remarkable and sassy for an African-American actor. Not to mention, he gave us infectious laughs with his snappy one-liners like "Welcome to Earth" after punching the alien in the face and "And what the hell is that smell?!!", which he ad-libbed while suffering from the revolting stench of brine shrimp when this scene got shot in the Lake Salt flats.

Conclusion 

ID4 may not have been perfect for a science-fiction blockbuster, but it doesn't stop this film from becoming a guilty pleasure. You can watch it in its original theatrical format or its special edition for the best experience. Like it or not, it proves that ID4 is better than the less iconic sequel. However, this concludes my analysis of the movie, which I consider one of my favourites.

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