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It was nice to finally watch movie that didn't seem like anything I'd ever seen before. This, much like Spielberg's "War of the Worlds" and "Children of Men", completely immerses you in this incredible situation with absolutely no knowledge to comfort you. It's very disorienting, which adds to the experience; you never figure out what the hell is going on but you're so into survival that you put it past you. You're placed with a bunch of characters whom you get to know and eventually must join in their frenzied search for a friend while being subjected to some horrifying imagery and new threats.

The effects look great and realistic thanks to the hand-held camera, which isn't too bad-looking if you manage to get a seat further from the screen. The filmmakers came up with some really great creature designs that were menacing yet very much original. If you're bound to be upset over seeing a movie with a lack of music, then stay for the credits, during which a fantastic suite of music composed by Michael Giacchino titled "Roar! (Cloverfield Theme)" plays.

All in all, a fantastic time at the movies. A little more background on the monster would be nice, though the absence of this information is intentional. Everyone in the theater was rooting for a sequel; maybe a second set of footage is found elsewhere? Or perhaps there is more the the viral marketing -- what exactly were Slusho and Tagruato? Also be prepared to suspend some disbelief, but considering the movie is about a monster destroying New York City, that shouldn't be too difficult.

Several things about this show. One: great cast. Jason Lee is always amazing, and he's well-complimented by Ethan Suplee, Nadine Velasquez, Jaime Pressley and the little-seen yet always-funny Eddie Steeples. Two: the humor. The writing is fantastic and smart, depicting the low-class in a more intelligent way. Three: the heart. Out of the so-far two episodes, each one has left you feeling good at the end that there's at least one fictional character who's out to do the best he can to improve the world. It even inspires someone (specifically in this case, me) to go out and do good things. This show is great, and hopefully Earl's list won't end too soon.

Wow, Spielberg really let loose and did not hold back with this film. It really defines "thriller" whilst being a fun and visually appealing summer action movie. The "tripods" are really done justice from the book, and H.G. Wells would have been proud. Then there are homages to the 1953 film which fit in quite well. And after that are the modifications made to make the film original and modern. Everything--acting, directing, writing, CG, music--comes together perfectly. Forget the whole recent Tom Cruise deal, he pulls through in the role and makes you forget what's going on in the real world. As for Spielberg, this is probably one of his most frightening movies ever, arguably surpassing "Jaws." The guy is so brilliant it can't even be fully explained. Many will say that they were unimpressed with the CG because the movie was so rushed, but I am amazed at how great it was especially considering the timing. This movie is incredible, and a summer movie that is not to be missed.