Always been a Tim Burton fan was hooked after his directing of "Batman"(89) and "Batman Returns"(92) and this entry from 1996 "Mars Attack" even though not his greatest is a carefree and fun little watch. As if your a fan of Burton's and like old comics and sci- fi then this wacky homage is enjoyable as from up above all across the galaxy call them aliens, Martians, or little green men these guys have invaded earth from the angry red hot Mars planet! These creatures also are about mean business as they are armed with gun rays that fry any human in their path. The special effects are pretty decent for 1996 and the humor and writing was funny and spot on. The Slim like green brain Martians have even outsmarted the U. S. federal government(2 out of 3 branches of the government are working for us and that ain't bad!). The acting and cast chemistry is top notch with all pros and all stars with Annette Bening, Glenn Close, Danny DeVito, Michael J. Fox, Martin Short, Tom Jones, Natalie Portman, Jim Brown and an eye candy treat with Sarah Jessica Parker(before her "Sex and the City" days) as a sexy colored bra wearing news reporter and interviewer. And last but not least the great and all time best Jack Nicholson as you guessed it the President of the United States! Overall funny watch and carefree feel good sci-fi comedy that doesn't take things or it's self to serious. Still a view for any Burton fan as the all star cast help make the film a watch too.
538 Reviews
Surprisingly, a real treat -- a genuine loving parody
crystallogic1 August 2018
I first saw this movie when I was sixteen or so, not long after it came out on video. I feel sure the people who rented it only did so because of the "A-list" actors. I don't think they really "got it" and, at the time, I'm not sure I did either.
over the years since then an interesting thing happened: I ended up watching this about four more times, twice when it just happened to be on and twice (the most recent times) through personal choice. It's safe to say that the damn thing just grew on me like insidious Martian mould. In 1996, I was really into science fiction, but more the "literary" stuff than silly old movies. I was a bit pompous about it all, in fact, so while I did kind of get a kick out of the movie the first time, mostly I just thought, "well, that's pretty silly, and surprisingly -- old-school!" and never really gave it much more consideration. With each subsequent viewing though, my immersion in old SF televisual classics and so-called b-movies had grown greater and certain things about this movie started to make a kind of ghastly, irreverent sense. I choose to just forget about the film being based on some old trading card series; I don't know anything about them, and maybe I'm missing out on something, but I think mars Attacks! works very well regardless as a kind of send-up of very serious and grave 50s and 60s low-budget SF "schlockfests".
The funny thing is, I like a lot of those old movies, and I like them unreservedly. I don't find the form to be automatically "cheesy", too talky, too earnest, or anything like that. And I'm not a huge fan of parody for its own sake. usually, in fact, it leaves me cold at best, and a bit angry at worst, as peoples' hard work and dedication is lamppooned for a new generation with little sense of taste or respect. It's easy to be really contemptuous about mars Attacks!, and I think that was part of my initial impulse. I just didn't see the point in putting an "a-list" cast and director to work on what was essentially a copy of a plot from a 1950s B movie. Jack Nicholson's salary from this film alone might have financed two of those pictures!
But then I thought about it a bit more. 1996 was the year Independence Day came out, too, after all. And what was this movie, this ridiculous blockbuster with the at-the-time state-of-the-art special effects and jumped-up movie stars, but a retread of 1956's Earth VS. the Flying Saucers? In fact, what were a lot of these big blockbuster movies but more expensive takes on what guys like Roger Corman, Val Guest and, yes, Ed Wood, had already done? Were they better just because they had a whole lot of money spent on them? NO!
So, mars Attacks! is different because it's bald-faced about it, and that's really the extent of the parody. The more things change, the more they stay the same. The actors here know they're in a silly movie, and they're allowed to have fun. Nobody's expected to pretend this movie is anything other than what it is: a total unrepentent blast from the past.
Sure, the ending is completely retarded. But it's ok as it's totally in keeping with the form! I like the build-up a lot. I enjoy the ridiculous stereotype characters, especially Ron Stiger's screaming red-in-the-face, practically foaming-at-the-mouth warmonger general. Jack nicholson as US President is so grave and sincere, it's hilarious; bang-up job from him, too. And there are so many adorable little cameos, gags and tributes. The music is nothing but loud warbly electronics done on an old synthesiser and it's the kind of thing that's both a terrific call-back to films of yore and something to annoy bothersome houseguests with. Tim Burton and Danny Elfman seem to have this relationship of trust going consistently, and I'm glad they went with this score instead of the normal bombastic stuff from sci-fi blockbusters of the 90s and beyond. About the gags, there are just too many to list, and a lot of them are over so quick you could easily miss them. This makes the movie have a nice re-play value, though, and is probably why I was always tempted to re-watch it even when my initial judgment was "kind of bad!".
I haven't even talked about the aliens. They're ridiculous and awesome. I love their perpetually pissed-off duck-quack talking. They seem to have a sense of humour even though they're hell-bent on killing everyone. And I'm sorry I can't remember the name of the IMDB reviewer who said this, but I just love the notion (which I just came across the other day here after watching again) that the martians set out to destroy everything "uncool" about humanity. I never thought of it like that before, and I think he might be on to something!
I also have to respect that even though Tim Burton got together a whole bunch of top-bill actors, everyone was not only (presumably) on board with the project, but most of them agreed to get killed off in sudden and undignified ways. I don't think anyone's acting chops were exactly stretched making this movie, but I hope everyone had a good time and enjoyed their cameos and generic parts and laughed along when they were dispatched. This is a rare beast for sure: a self-aware and slightly smug 1990s movie that still managed to win me over and put several big grins on my face. Try it!
over the years since then an interesting thing happened: I ended up watching this about four more times, twice when it just happened to be on and twice (the most recent times) through personal choice. It's safe to say that the damn thing just grew on me like insidious Martian mould. In 1996, I was really into science fiction, but more the "literary" stuff than silly old movies. I was a bit pompous about it all, in fact, so while I did kind of get a kick out of the movie the first time, mostly I just thought, "well, that's pretty silly, and surprisingly -- old-school!" and never really gave it much more consideration. With each subsequent viewing though, my immersion in old SF televisual classics and so-called b-movies had grown greater and certain things about this movie started to make a kind of ghastly, irreverent sense. I choose to just forget about the film being based on some old trading card series; I don't know anything about them, and maybe I'm missing out on something, but I think mars Attacks! works very well regardless as a kind of send-up of very serious and grave 50s and 60s low-budget SF "schlockfests".
The funny thing is, I like a lot of those old movies, and I like them unreservedly. I don't find the form to be automatically "cheesy", too talky, too earnest, or anything like that. And I'm not a huge fan of parody for its own sake. usually, in fact, it leaves me cold at best, and a bit angry at worst, as peoples' hard work and dedication is lamppooned for a new generation with little sense of taste or respect. It's easy to be really contemptuous about mars Attacks!, and I think that was part of my initial impulse. I just didn't see the point in putting an "a-list" cast and director to work on what was essentially a copy of a plot from a 1950s B movie. Jack Nicholson's salary from this film alone might have financed two of those pictures!
But then I thought about it a bit more. 1996 was the year Independence Day came out, too, after all. And what was this movie, this ridiculous blockbuster with the at-the-time state-of-the-art special effects and jumped-up movie stars, but a retread of 1956's Earth VS. the Flying Saucers? In fact, what were a lot of these big blockbuster movies but more expensive takes on what guys like Roger Corman, Val Guest and, yes, Ed Wood, had already done? Were they better just because they had a whole lot of money spent on them? NO!
So, mars Attacks! is different because it's bald-faced about it, and that's really the extent of the parody. The more things change, the more they stay the same. The actors here know they're in a silly movie, and they're allowed to have fun. Nobody's expected to pretend this movie is anything other than what it is: a total unrepentent blast from the past.
Sure, the ending is completely retarded. But it's ok as it's totally in keeping with the form! I like the build-up a lot. I enjoy the ridiculous stereotype characters, especially Ron Stiger's screaming red-in-the-face, practically foaming-at-the-mouth warmonger general. Jack nicholson as US President is so grave and sincere, it's hilarious; bang-up job from him, too. And there are so many adorable little cameos, gags and tributes. The music is nothing but loud warbly electronics done on an old synthesiser and it's the kind of thing that's both a terrific call-back to films of yore and something to annoy bothersome houseguests with. Tim Burton and Danny Elfman seem to have this relationship of trust going consistently, and I'm glad they went with this score instead of the normal bombastic stuff from sci-fi blockbusters of the 90s and beyond. About the gags, there are just too many to list, and a lot of them are over so quick you could easily miss them. This makes the movie have a nice re-play value, though, and is probably why I was always tempted to re-watch it even when my initial judgment was "kind of bad!".
I haven't even talked about the aliens. They're ridiculous and awesome. I love their perpetually pissed-off duck-quack talking. They seem to have a sense of humour even though they're hell-bent on killing everyone. And I'm sorry I can't remember the name of the IMDB reviewer who said this, but I just love the notion (which I just came across the other day here after watching again) that the martians set out to destroy everything "uncool" about humanity. I never thought of it like that before, and I think he might be on to something!
I also have to respect that even though Tim Burton got together a whole bunch of top-bill actors, everyone was not only (presumably) on board with the project, but most of them agreed to get killed off in sudden and undignified ways. I don't think anyone's acting chops were exactly stretched making this movie, but I hope everyone had a good time and enjoyed their cameos and generic parts and laughed along when they were dispatched. This is a rare beast for sure: a self-aware and slightly smug 1990s movie that still managed to win me over and put several big grins on my face. Try it!
Refreshingly mean-spirited
Leofwine_draca25 August 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Tim Burton's sci-fi spoof was a massive flop on first release; this was because audiences were expecting a straight science fiction film, when what they got in fact was a comedy. People either love or hate this film, there is no in between, and thankfully I'm in the former camp in this case. As a comedy, Burton's film is wonderful. A star-studded cast of famous faces send themselves up shamelessly, all of those tacky alien invasion pictures of the 1950s are referenced and paid homage too, and on top of all this, we have loads of excellent CGI effects to contend with. The comic book feel of the film comes from the rich, bright colours, everything looks fake and tacky, and it's meant to.
Along the way we get take-offs of WAR OF THE WORLDS, EARTH VERSUS THE FLYING SAUCERS, and INDEPENDENCE DAY. The Martians themselves are a delightfully mischievous little bunch who enjoy mass destruction and sadism. Comedy highlights include a scene where one such Martian runs through the burning streets with a tape playing "Do not run. We are your friends!"! The bulging brain and eyeballs of these creatures make them very distinctive and difficult to forget, and as a bonus they're excellently animated too. The UFOs are also wonderful.
As with any comedy, things are hit and miss, but as a whole this film is a success. It's difficult to believe the ensemble cast assembled here. Jack Nicholson overacts in not one but two roles as the president and an entrepreneur. Glenn Close appears briefly as his wife before being crushed by a falling chandelier. Annette Bening is an annoying New Ager who sadly doesn't get incinerated by the aliens. Pierce Brosnan plays a clichéd British scientist who ends up minus his body in one of the film's many odd and unique moments. Sarah Jessica Parker is the braindead chat show host who gets her head attached to the body of her dog. Danny DeVito is an obsessive gambler who fails to impress an alien enemy and gets fried. Michael J. Fox loses his hand. Martin Short mistakes an alien in disguise for his newest girlfriend and has his finger chewed off for his troubles. Rod Steiger goes way, way over the top as an antagonistic general ("Annihilate! Destroy! Kill! Kill!) and gets shrunken and then stepped upon. Lukas Haas (all grown up from WITNESS) is a dumb teenage hero. Natalie Portman is the president's daughter. Tom Jones cameos as himself. Jim Brown and Pam Grier come back from the '70s. The list goes on.
Everybody sends themselves up and acts appallingly. They seem to be having a really good time and this feeling rubs off. Burton also doesn't skimp on the violence, revelling in burning cattle, destruction (the stone heads on Easter Island turned skittles is a good one), people being ray-gunned and turning into multicoloured skeletons, amputations, and various other gory highlights, all in the spirit of the original sadistic Topps trading cards of the '60s. Ever wished that dog in INDEPENDENCE DAY had bought it? Here's your chance to see a canine fry. As a satire, MARS ATTACKS! has a winning formula and should be seen by any good-natured science fiction addict.
Along the way we get take-offs of WAR OF THE WORLDS, EARTH VERSUS THE FLYING SAUCERS, and INDEPENDENCE DAY. The Martians themselves are a delightfully mischievous little bunch who enjoy mass destruction and sadism. Comedy highlights include a scene where one such Martian runs through the burning streets with a tape playing "Do not run. We are your friends!"! The bulging brain and eyeballs of these creatures make them very distinctive and difficult to forget, and as a bonus they're excellently animated too. The UFOs are also wonderful.
As with any comedy, things are hit and miss, but as a whole this film is a success. It's difficult to believe the ensemble cast assembled here. Jack Nicholson overacts in not one but two roles as the president and an entrepreneur. Glenn Close appears briefly as his wife before being crushed by a falling chandelier. Annette Bening is an annoying New Ager who sadly doesn't get incinerated by the aliens. Pierce Brosnan plays a clichéd British scientist who ends up minus his body in one of the film's many odd and unique moments. Sarah Jessica Parker is the braindead chat show host who gets her head attached to the body of her dog. Danny DeVito is an obsessive gambler who fails to impress an alien enemy and gets fried. Michael J. Fox loses his hand. Martin Short mistakes an alien in disguise for his newest girlfriend and has his finger chewed off for his troubles. Rod Steiger goes way, way over the top as an antagonistic general ("Annihilate! Destroy! Kill! Kill!) and gets shrunken and then stepped upon. Lukas Haas (all grown up from WITNESS) is a dumb teenage hero. Natalie Portman is the president's daughter. Tom Jones cameos as himself. Jim Brown and Pam Grier come back from the '70s. The list goes on.
Everybody sends themselves up and acts appallingly. They seem to be having a really good time and this feeling rubs off. Burton also doesn't skimp on the violence, revelling in burning cattle, destruction (the stone heads on Easter Island turned skittles is a good one), people being ray-gunned and turning into multicoloured skeletons, amputations, and various other gory highlights, all in the spirit of the original sadistic Topps trading cards of the '60s. Ever wished that dog in INDEPENDENCE DAY had bought it? Here's your chance to see a canine fry. As a satire, MARS ATTACKS! has a winning formula and should be seen by any good-natured science fiction addict.
ACK!ACK! ACK!ACK!
stiv-71 June 2004
Warning: Spoilers
Anybody who hated this movie missed the point. This is a fun little satire on the American culture of assimilation, the great cultural melting pot. It dares to ask the question: What if another group of people doesn't want to be adopted into the American consumerist culture? The results are hilarious, as we have a group of Martians double-talking their way through the annihilation of the US of A, and the only people capable of stopping them are those who could really care less about the American Way: the President's daughter, who shows more respect for culture and history than her parents could ever muster; and Richie the donut store kid, whose primary concern is the welfare of others, specifically his grandmother, who ironically provides him with a way out of this mess. I've only seen this film twice, but it still makes me laugh my head off and provides me with the antidote for the jingoistic finale to the other alien invasion film of 1996, Independence Day.
In short, say what you want about Mars Attacks! If you don't understand it, that's not my problem.
In short, say what you want about Mars Attacks! If you don't understand it, that's not my problem.
If you have a warped sense of humour, you'll enjoy this
rebeljenn21 January 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Tim Burton's film, 'Mars Attacks!' combines elements of dark humour with an alien invasion to create a hilarious film. There's no doubt about it that audiences will be torn between those who enjoyed the film (the comedy) and those who hated it. This film is a parody of other Earth-invasion films, such as 'Independence Day' and 'War of the Worlds', which have been a common theme in story-telling for decades and particularly in the 1950s. In this film, the aliens are content on destroying Earth and humiliating the humans for the sake of it. It's not a serious film at all, and you'll either love it or hate it, depending on how warped your sense of humour is. I thought it was fun, even though it is not the best film of all time.
"Can we do interviews?"
TBJCSKCNRRQTreviews30 January 2010
If you have seen a Burton film before, you have an idea of what to expect. On the other hand, if you have not, it is a little difficult to determine if you will enjoy it or not. What I can say is that this is *not* mainstream or Hollywood. If anything, it mocks the traditions of such. This is tasteless, sick, twisted fun, spoofing and satirizing the army, politics, the media, religion, etc. It also contains homages to the campy sci-fi flicks of the 50's, though you really don't need to be particularly familiar with those to get into this(I'm not, and I laugh my head off). This was my second viewing, and the other time was at least half a decade ago, and yet I remembered nearly everything(and the humor still "worked" for me, in spite of me knowing the punchlines). That doesn't happen all that often. The comedy is *hilarious*(with some exceptions that miss the mark), with silly and goofy material, absurdity, brilliantly written dialog and absolutely *no* holding back. This has a magnificent cast(all of them clearly in on it, aware of what the final product would be) and the characters are distinguished and memorable, and all the archetypes are there. The acting is spot-on for nearly every performance; Tom Jones isn't entirely convincing, but it doesn't get to be terribly bothersome. This never stands still, there is a ton of energy in it, and the pacing is fast without being overwhelming. The special effects are good, if you can tell that CGI was relatively new at this point, and the integration between the FX and the live-action elements is reasonable at best. There is plenty of moderately violent and disturbing content, a little mild language and brief(not graphic) sexuality in this. I recommend it to anyone who can imagine that they'd like it. 7/10
Burton's Craziest Hour!
namashi_110 May 2015
Based on the cult trading card series of the same name, 'Mars Attacks!' is Tim Burton's Craziest Hour! The Legendary Filmmaker has churned out some of the most morbid/dark subjects with zeal before, but this comic sci-fi flick, has to be his most absurdest to date.
'Mars Attacks!' Synopsis: Earth is invaded by Martians with unbeatable weapons and a cruel sense of humor.
'Mars Attacks!' is pure insanity. You see martians causing hell on earth, while the human characters are all caricatures. This isn't a film that should be taken seriously, mostly because, it itself knows how over-the-top & gleefully silly it is.
But, thats not a bad thing. 'Mars Attacks!' works tremendously well for the genre it follows. I laughed at places & I was engrossed by its comical characters. Yes, at times, I was like, is this happening for real? But Burton & co., give us some delicious moments to cover its flaws.
Jonathan Gems's Screenplay isn't full-proof, but it works nonetheless. Burton's Direction is over-the-top. Cinematography & Editing are average. Special Effects are ingeniously done. Make-Up is nicely done.
Performance-Wise: Of its ensemble cast, its Jack Nicholson, in dual roles, who takes the lead & is a joy to watch. The legend dons the role of the paranoid president well, but is a hoot as the greedy developer of Las Vegas. Martin Short as the sleazy press secretary, is in terrific form. Annette Bening, as the deranged women, is top-notch. Sarah Jessica Parker as the feisty TV star, is excellent. And Pierce Brosnan as a science expert, is highly effective.
On the whole, 'Mars Attacks!' may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it deserves a watch nonetheless for the versatility of Burton's vision.
'Mars Attacks!' Synopsis: Earth is invaded by Martians with unbeatable weapons and a cruel sense of humor.
'Mars Attacks!' is pure insanity. You see martians causing hell on earth, while the human characters are all caricatures. This isn't a film that should be taken seriously, mostly because, it itself knows how over-the-top & gleefully silly it is.
But, thats not a bad thing. 'Mars Attacks!' works tremendously well for the genre it follows. I laughed at places & I was engrossed by its comical characters. Yes, at times, I was like, is this happening for real? But Burton & co., give us some delicious moments to cover its flaws.
Jonathan Gems's Screenplay isn't full-proof, but it works nonetheless. Burton's Direction is over-the-top. Cinematography & Editing are average. Special Effects are ingeniously done. Make-Up is nicely done.
Performance-Wise: Of its ensemble cast, its Jack Nicholson, in dual roles, who takes the lead & is a joy to watch. The legend dons the role of the paranoid president well, but is a hoot as the greedy developer of Las Vegas. Martin Short as the sleazy press secretary, is in terrific form. Annette Bening, as the deranged women, is top-notch. Sarah Jessica Parker as the feisty TV star, is excellent. And Pierce Brosnan as a science expert, is highly effective.
On the whole, 'Mars Attacks!' may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it deserves a watch nonetheless for the versatility of Burton's vision.
You Get it or You Don't; I don't
aramis-112-80488028 January 2023
A first rank cast apparently "gets" what goes on in this movie. I don't. Usually when people say "you get it or you don't," I get it. I love comedy that comes in by side doors. I've always seen the wackier side of things.
Perhaps because I was unfamiliar with the "Mars Attacks" trading cards and because I don't give a hang about alien invasion yarns, including by that fascist eugenics-supporter H. G. Wells, I simply don't care for this, either. And that mars (no pun) my appreciation for the humor.
But I refuse to admit any fault in myself in not "getting" this flick. Then again, it was my first brush with Tim Burton since "Pee Wee's Big Adventure," which I enjoyed. Perhaps in the mran time he's been able to indulge himself too much.
Frankly, I found long swathes of this gross.
Still, individual performances tickled my fancy. Michael J Fox was always good before his unfortunate disappearance. Pierce Brosnan fits into his part like a glove. His pipe is the best thing in the movie. But for the most part, however good the cast member, he, she or it doesn't find my funny bone. And I stuck with it to the bitter end.
If you like it, fine. But I'm never judgmental about people who don't "get" freaked-out comedies I love. Don't judge me for not liking this.
Perhaps because I was unfamiliar with the "Mars Attacks" trading cards and because I don't give a hang about alien invasion yarns, including by that fascist eugenics-supporter H. G. Wells, I simply don't care for this, either. And that mars (no pun) my appreciation for the humor.
But I refuse to admit any fault in myself in not "getting" this flick. Then again, it was my first brush with Tim Burton since "Pee Wee's Big Adventure," which I enjoyed. Perhaps in the mran time he's been able to indulge himself too much.
Frankly, I found long swathes of this gross.
Still, individual performances tickled my fancy. Michael J Fox was always good before his unfortunate disappearance. Pierce Brosnan fits into his part like a glove. His pipe is the best thing in the movie. But for the most part, however good the cast member, he, she or it doesn't find my funny bone. And I stuck with it to the bitter end.
If you like it, fine. But I'm never judgmental about people who don't "get" freaked-out comedies I love. Don't judge me for not liking this.
This is one of the funniest movies I've ever seen.
jamesonwhite110 February 2021
All star cast in a homage to B 1950's Sci fi
kermitdgorf12331 October 2019
So many Oscar winners and nominees.
Very entertaining with cartoonish aliens.
It's one of those film's you have to watch a few times to appreciate the humour.
Tim Burton never dissaponts. Some of the cast are a bit hammy. Written that way I suppose.
How is this movie funny?
KellySaxy31 May 2005
Warning: Spoilers
I actually saw this movie when I was 15, and it scared the crap out of me. I'm not some sheltered person either. I loved horror movies and had seen every one up until that point with no nightmares and Mars Attacks scared the crap out of me. It was embarrassing--especially since Tim Burton was and is my favorite director, but he certainly is more demented than most directors--which I usually love--but this time I was very disturbed by the fact that he found mean-spirited cruel aliens on a senseless killing spree--funny. I rewatched the movie tonight for the second time ever, and I still found this disturbing. This time is didn't scare me, but I still didn't find it funny. I usually love Dark Comedy, but for it to be successful it actually needs to be funny. I don't find this funny at all, so I'm really asking, why is it funny?
When these aliens incinerate people who are just trying to shake hands with them, they laugh, and apparently the audience laughs with them, but why? Am I really supposed to laugh when they incinerate Congress after pretending to come in peace? Am I supposed to laugh when they drop a chandelier on the first lady? Am I supposed to laugh when they incinerate a dog who's just trying to protect his masters? Am I supposed to laugh when the ambassador tricks the President into shaking hands with him so he can stab him through the chest? Am I supposed to find the aliens funny because they're dancing to Tom Jones when the lights come on, even though they turn their guns on the audience and start incinerating people again? With all the incineration that's going on this seems more like a holocaust movie. It's also especially morbid that all the skeletons are red and green (this movie came out around Christmas). After Nightmare before Christmas--which I do actually love and see the brilliance of--I've decided Tim Burton had something really bad happen to him on Christmas once,or maybe every year his family and he roasted people and painted their skeletons who knows? But my point is HOW IS THAT FUNNY? It's senseless violence and, sure it supposedly spoofs every thing American, Presidential, and Sci-Fi, but I still don't laugh during this movie ever. I really don't see a place that I possibly could, and yes I've seen all the old sci-fi movies. War of the World. The Day the Earth stood still etc. I get these aliens were based on bubble-gum cards, but the only successful spoof of Tim Burton's in this genre--I think is Ed Wood--which actually is funny.
So seriously. I know it's like Opera (you either love it or you hate it) but I really don't see how anyone could love this. And yes, I'm pretty sure I get what about it is SUPPOSED to be funny--I'm not dense--but it's not funny to me (just because some people don't love it other assume they don't get it. It's possible to understand something and not like it). Especially since I don't find mean things that kill people for fun, funny, and apparently that's what it takes to like this movie. And YEAH, I get that it's supposed to be a joke and I shouldn't take it seriously--I don't, it's obviously an exaggeration,. But still, I don't find it funny at all, and I really don't get how anyone could. So, man, I really think Tim Burton dropped the ball on that one. This movie was no good for anyone's careers who were involved. They all seemed to disappear for a two year period...
When these aliens incinerate people who are just trying to shake hands with them, they laugh, and apparently the audience laughs with them, but why? Am I really supposed to laugh when they incinerate Congress after pretending to come in peace? Am I supposed to laugh when they drop a chandelier on the first lady? Am I supposed to laugh when they incinerate a dog who's just trying to protect his masters? Am I supposed to laugh when the ambassador tricks the President into shaking hands with him so he can stab him through the chest? Am I supposed to find the aliens funny because they're dancing to Tom Jones when the lights come on, even though they turn their guns on the audience and start incinerating people again? With all the incineration that's going on this seems more like a holocaust movie. It's also especially morbid that all the skeletons are red and green (this movie came out around Christmas). After Nightmare before Christmas--which I do actually love and see the brilliance of--I've decided Tim Burton had something really bad happen to him on Christmas once,or maybe every year his family and he roasted people and painted their skeletons who knows? But my point is HOW IS THAT FUNNY? It's senseless violence and, sure it supposedly spoofs every thing American, Presidential, and Sci-Fi, but I still don't laugh during this movie ever. I really don't see a place that I possibly could, and yes I've seen all the old sci-fi movies. War of the World. The Day the Earth stood still etc. I get these aliens were based on bubble-gum cards, but the only successful spoof of Tim Burton's in this genre--I think is Ed Wood--which actually is funny.
So seriously. I know it's like Opera (you either love it or you hate it) but I really don't see how anyone could love this. And yes, I'm pretty sure I get what about it is SUPPOSED to be funny--I'm not dense--but it's not funny to me (just because some people don't love it other assume they don't get it. It's possible to understand something and not like it). Especially since I don't find mean things that kill people for fun, funny, and apparently that's what it takes to like this movie. And YEAH, I get that it's supposed to be a joke and I shouldn't take it seriously--I don't, it's obviously an exaggeration,. But still, I don't find it funny at all, and I really don't get how anyone could. So, man, I really think Tim Burton dropped the ball on that one. This movie was no good for anyone's careers who were involved. They all seemed to disappear for a two year period...
A guilty pleasure that grows on you
rbsjrx30 January 2005
When I first saw this in the theater with my granddaughter, we both found to be pretty lame and disappointing, but not without some wit to it. Since then, it's been on the cable channels multiple times, and I always find myself watching it again. I really hate to admit it, but this thing has really grown on me - so much so that I finally bought the DVD.
When I first saw it, I wouldn't have given it more than a 4 out of 10, but after repeated viewings, I now give it a 9. I can't really say why, and I certainly can't justify it in any rational sense, but it all just works for me. The wry wit, the blatant social and political commentary, I find it all immensely satisfying.
My confession's over, I'll do my penance. But I have to also say that my granddaughter's opinion of it has never wavered. She considers this movie as evidence of my incipient senility...
When I first saw it, I wouldn't have given it more than a 4 out of 10, but after repeated viewings, I now give it a 9. I can't really say why, and I certainly can't justify it in any rational sense, but it all just works for me. The wry wit, the blatant social and political commentary, I find it all immensely satisfying.
My confession's over, I'll do my penance. But I have to also say that my granddaughter's opinion of it has never wavered. She considers this movie as evidence of my incipient senility...
A wonderful Burton Flick
FilmFanInTheHouse28 August 2007
Mars Attacks! (1996, Dir. Tim Burton)
It is a normal day for everyone, until the President of the United States. They are able to get in contact with the Martians, and arrange for a meeting behind them and us humans. But not everything goes to plan, and the Martians have other plans for Earth. Are they just misunderstood beings? or do they really want to destroy all of humanity.
When you see a film with Tim Burton's name on it, you know it's going to be something special. Mars Attacks! is nothing short of that. The story is there with enough action to keep you hooked. The action is top standard, even from Tom Jones. Jack Nicholson is just amazing in this playing two characters. The special effects are a mixed bag nowadays. Some of the effects still looked good such as the spaceships, but some CGI looked a bit dodgy, such as the green slime against the walls. This doesn't reduce the fun though, and you still have an enjoyable viewing experience, even after ten years.
"I'm not having that thing in my house." - First Lady (Glenn Close)
It is a normal day for everyone, until the President of the United States. They are able to get in contact with the Martians, and arrange for a meeting behind them and us humans. But not everything goes to plan, and the Martians have other plans for Earth. Are they just misunderstood beings? or do they really want to destroy all of humanity.
When you see a film with Tim Burton's name on it, you know it's going to be something special. Mars Attacks! is nothing short of that. The story is there with enough action to keep you hooked. The action is top standard, even from Tom Jones. Jack Nicholson is just amazing in this playing two characters. The special effects are a mixed bag nowadays. Some of the effects still looked good such as the spaceships, but some CGI looked a bit dodgy, such as the green slime against the walls. This doesn't reduce the fun though, and you still have an enjoyable viewing experience, even after ten years.
"I'm not having that thing in my house." - First Lady (Glenn Close)
Unfunny and gruesome from beginning to end...
Devon20 October 1999
There have been many comments on this movie so I will be brief. There are no redeeming qualities to this film. Most of the best actors are wasted in throw-away parts, with death scenes that are not at all funny. There is nothing particularly intelligent about this film, contrary to some comments; perhaps they mistake gleeful sadism for intelligence. There are few movies I truly hate, and this is one of them.
Music saves the earth from the ruthless martians
pbhowmick6 March 2001
Warning: Spoilers
This movie is hilarious. It works at all levels. Its funny, its original in its approach, and is a perfect satire on all those euphoric sci-fi movies. Its a laugh all the way roller-coaster with a script that never stops to shock you. It is such a pleasant diversion from the serious, heavy and pretentious sci fi disaster films full of preachings and heroism of a few.
The characters in the film are damn funny and very well developed. The huge cast has been assembled so well by the casting director, that I feel each and every actor was born to play his/her character in the film. The double dose of Jack Nicholson is awesome. He plays the Texan millionaire cowboy so well, that I couldn't identify him when he appeared the first time. Tim Burton does a commendable job of building up so many characters with so little time. He doesn't waste any time at all, every one gets a few minutes as the movie is on the run from the word go, but still each character is rock solid. I wonder how was he able to manage Jack Nicholson, Pierce Brosnon, Annette Benning, Glenn Rose, Michael J Fox, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Natalie Portman, Danny Devito, Pam Grier and Tom Jones. Each one of them deliver a worthy performance. The special effects are too good. They are not sleek and heavy as in other big budget films, but unpolished and cocky, in line with the message of the film. The martians are hilarious, but devilish at the same time. The music has the touch of 60s sci fi films which only adds to the effect.
Finally, here is a film which doesn't try to be wise and sensible in a cliched way about our fantasies of life in outer space, instead takes a lighter and jollier approach.
The characters in the film are damn funny and very well developed. The huge cast has been assembled so well by the casting director, that I feel each and every actor was born to play his/her character in the film. The double dose of Jack Nicholson is awesome. He plays the Texan millionaire cowboy so well, that I couldn't identify him when he appeared the first time. Tim Burton does a commendable job of building up so many characters with so little time. He doesn't waste any time at all, every one gets a few minutes as the movie is on the run from the word go, but still each character is rock solid. I wonder how was he able to manage Jack Nicholson, Pierce Brosnon, Annette Benning, Glenn Rose, Michael J Fox, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Natalie Portman, Danny Devito, Pam Grier and Tom Jones. Each one of them deliver a worthy performance. The special effects are too good. They are not sleek and heavy as in other big budget films, but unpolished and cocky, in line with the message of the film. The martians are hilarious, but devilish at the same time. The music has the touch of 60s sci fi films which only adds to the effect.
Finally, here is a film which doesn't try to be wise and sensible in a cliched way about our fantasies of life in outer space, instead takes a lighter and jollier approach.
Classic example of how aliens will invade earth one day 7\10
saadanathan11 July 2021
"Mars Attacks!" is another big hit by Tim Burton, the setting takes place on Earth, which is being invaded by Martians (or in other words: aliens).
The movie is another classic example of how humanity discovers a species of aliens and tries to communicate with them. Only to find out that the aliens have not come in peace. Unlike other movies which show the encounter with aliens, "Mars Attacks!" in particular laughs and makes fun of this sci - fi genre. It is made purposely so ridiculous, whacky and bizarre that it's main intension is just to laugh at humanity.
The audience know for sure that a real encounter with aliens will go down way more different than shown here, yet so personally I believe what we just saw on "Mars Attacks!" is a possible outcome.
The cast of actors is well wide and impressive: Jack Nicholson, Pierce Brosnan, Sarah Jessica Parker, Annette Bening, Glenn Close and many more.
Great movie and great casting, a good and funny screenplay, a really joyful film to watch all together.
The movie is another classic example of how humanity discovers a species of aliens and tries to communicate with them. Only to find out that the aliens have not come in peace. Unlike other movies which show the encounter with aliens, "Mars Attacks!" in particular laughs and makes fun of this sci - fi genre. It is made purposely so ridiculous, whacky and bizarre that it's main intension is just to laugh at humanity.
The audience know for sure that a real encounter with aliens will go down way more different than shown here, yet so personally I believe what we just saw on "Mars Attacks!" is a possible outcome.
The cast of actors is well wide and impressive: Jack Nicholson, Pierce Brosnan, Sarah Jessica Parker, Annette Bening, Glenn Close and many more.
Great movie and great casting, a good and funny screenplay, a really joyful film to watch all together.
A Hilarious Tribute To Alien Invasion B Movies with Burton Flavor
KalKenobi8320 September 2016
Watched Mars Attacks! Featuring Jack Nicholson(Batman) as President James Dale/ Art Land , Glenn Close(Hamlet) as First Lady Marsha Dale , Pierce Brosnan(Goldeneye 007 ) as Professor Donald Kessler ,Danny DeVito(Batman Returns) as Rude Gambler,Annette Bening(Richard III) as Barbara Land ,Martin Short(Father Of The Bride II) as Press Secretary Jerry Ross, Sarah Jessica Parker(The Substance Of Fire) as Nathalie Lake, Michael J.Fox(Back To The Future) as Jason Stone, Rod Steiger(Shiloh) as General Decker, Lukas Haas(The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles) as Richie Norris,Natalie Portman(Leon The Professional) as Taffy Dale, Jim Brown(L.A. Heat) as Bryon Williams, Sylvia Sydney(Used People) as Florence Norris , Pam Grier(Jackie Brown) as Louise Williams, Jack Black(The X-Files) as Billy-Glenn Norris and Tom Jones as Himself . The film is interesting and one of my favorite Burton films with 1950's B Sci-Fi Flavor as well Burtons Own spin also very Hilarious Also A Parody of Independence as well also enjoyed the heavy handed cast as well . Amazing Score By Danny Elfman( Ed Wood), Costume Design By Coleen Atwood(That Thing You Do!) ,Cinematography By Peter Suschitzsky (Krull) ,Screenplay by Jonathan Gems(White Mischief) , Direction By Tim Burton(Beetlejuice) A Hilarious Tribute To Alien Invasion B Movies with Burton Flavor 7/10
Great spoof, no matter how silly it gets
KnightsofNi1131 August 2011
I you're a sci-fi fan you might like this film, you might not. If you're a Tim Burton fan you might like this film, or you might not. I you're a fan of mixed genre films you might like this film, you might not. Personally, I really liked this wacky little flick. Mars Attacks! is a spoof of 1950's sci-fi movies, poking fun at all their cheese and cliché. It centers around a variety of characters spread out amongst the USA and how they all react and cope with a martian invasion. There's nothing in this film to take seriously and, for what it's worth, I found it to be hilarious and a ridiculous amount of fun, no matter how stupid it can be.
Mars Attacks! is, in a way, genius. It is the kind of movie that is designed in such a way that you can't critique it. You can dislike it, or even hate it, but you can't necessarily critique it on any specific element. The reason being is that it spoofs a genre and a time period for that genre, so anything that is cheesy, silly, or stupid can be accredited to the film's spoofing. If a character does something irrational and idiotic, it is spoofing the way characters were in so many of those cheesy 50's flicks. If something totally bizarre and unbelievable happens in the plot, blame it on the genre the film is spoofing. This kind of manipulations practically falls under the category of film treachery, but I have to give the film credit for finding a loophole around any and all imperfections.
And as far as imperfections go, Mars Attacks! has a lot of them. It is a ridiculous, absurd, unrealistic, and plot hole ridden film. Half of it makes no sense and the other half we just sort of have to go with. But the brilliant thing is, that's all part of the fun. This film isn't made to take seriously, and neither is it made to be criticized and scrutinized. It is meant to be enjoyed and only aims to be silly and entertaining. Some will see it as an uncreative way to force us to enjoy this movie, I see it as an opportunity to have a great time and numerous laughs.
Another thing I have to give Mars Attacks! plenty of props for is production value. The film rounds up an all star cast of characters with everyone from Danny DeVito to Jack Black. It is also just a large scale flick with lots of great actions sequences with plenty of explosions and giant collapsing buildings. The martians themselves are completely CGI. They look cool to me but I'm unsure if the CGI would be considered good or bad for 1996. I would have to go back and compare it to other special effects of the 90's. The film may looks cheesy but, once again, that just goes back to the fact that everything about this film is cheesy because that is what it is spoofing. But when you think about it, a good amount of money and construction went into making this film as exciting and big budget cheesy as possible, and for that I have to commend it.
Mars Attacks! isn't what you would call a high quality film, but that doesn't stop it from being pretty damn fun. I couldn't stop myself from laughing at the cheesiness, the irony, and the satire that is littered throughout this film. I see this is a great use of satire, and it is a spoof film that I can actually stand to watch, and that's saying a lot considering my alternatives would be Epic Movie or Vampires Suck. Mars Attacks! accomplishes what it sets out to do, and so I had a really great time with it.
Mars Attacks! is, in a way, genius. It is the kind of movie that is designed in such a way that you can't critique it. You can dislike it, or even hate it, but you can't necessarily critique it on any specific element. The reason being is that it spoofs a genre and a time period for that genre, so anything that is cheesy, silly, or stupid can be accredited to the film's spoofing. If a character does something irrational and idiotic, it is spoofing the way characters were in so many of those cheesy 50's flicks. If something totally bizarre and unbelievable happens in the plot, blame it on the genre the film is spoofing. This kind of manipulations practically falls under the category of film treachery, but I have to give the film credit for finding a loophole around any and all imperfections.
And as far as imperfections go, Mars Attacks! has a lot of them. It is a ridiculous, absurd, unrealistic, and plot hole ridden film. Half of it makes no sense and the other half we just sort of have to go with. But the brilliant thing is, that's all part of the fun. This film isn't made to take seriously, and neither is it made to be criticized and scrutinized. It is meant to be enjoyed and only aims to be silly and entertaining. Some will see it as an uncreative way to force us to enjoy this movie, I see it as an opportunity to have a great time and numerous laughs.
Another thing I have to give Mars Attacks! plenty of props for is production value. The film rounds up an all star cast of characters with everyone from Danny DeVito to Jack Black. It is also just a large scale flick with lots of great actions sequences with plenty of explosions and giant collapsing buildings. The martians themselves are completely CGI. They look cool to me but I'm unsure if the CGI would be considered good or bad for 1996. I would have to go back and compare it to other special effects of the 90's. The film may looks cheesy but, once again, that just goes back to the fact that everything about this film is cheesy because that is what it is spoofing. But when you think about it, a good amount of money and construction went into making this film as exciting and big budget cheesy as possible, and for that I have to commend it.
Mars Attacks! isn't what you would call a high quality film, but that doesn't stop it from being pretty damn fun. I couldn't stop myself from laughing at the cheesiness, the irony, and the satire that is littered throughout this film. I see this is a great use of satire, and it is a spoof film that I can actually stand to watch, and that's saying a lot considering my alternatives would be Epic Movie or Vampires Suck. Mars Attacks! accomplishes what it sets out to do, and so I had a really great time with it.
Aliens Kill Humans. Repeat. LAME!
DebReed9 August 1999
This movie had tons of stars and lots of humor potential, but no humor!!! I don't remember one funny line from the movie! All it was was a disturbingly violent cartoon. Here is the entire plot:
He He! Alien gruesomely kills a human. He He!
Repeat, 50 times. The End. LAME!
He He! Alien gruesomely kills a human. He He!
Repeat, 50 times. The End. LAME!
Misunderstood ???
Coventry7 January 2004
There's one guarantee in life : When you're reading 5 reviews on Mars Attacks, FOUR of them are negative ones! Why, I ask?? It's really hard for me to believe that all these movie-lovers fail to see the film like Tim Burton intended it. Mars Attacks! is a great film and - above all - a very effective parody. Burton takes the opportunity to spoof and laugh with almost every form of nowadays filth...Politics, religion, the army, television, greed in Las Vegas and God knows what else. Mars Attacks! is the purest form of cinema anarchy I've seen so far, and I really want to encourage you to see it again if you didn't like it the first time. Tim Burton is a genius. Practically all movies he did before ( and after ) Mars Attacks! prove that. Do you really believe that he would deliver a failure? Or do you think the entire brilliant cast would agree to starring in an inferior production?? They all acknowledged the genius of this movie...why can't the audience do the same?
Mars Attacks! is a very remarkable achievement for yet another reason. This very well might be only film that cost a fortune in order to look cheap! Burton probably wasted a huge budget to make the settings and the design look like they did in the typical 50's Science Fiction movies. Burton is a big fan of these movies and he saved neither money or trouble to make his satire look like those films. The direct tribute to Edward Wood in the opening credits is an obvious example of this as well, I think. Perhaps, this would be the only real thing you can accuse Tim Burton of...Mars Attacks! is a very personal project of his. I really doubt he worried much about the question whether Mars Attacks! would become a success or not. He told his tale and he clearly enjoyed doing so...Why wouldn't you enjoy watching it then?
Note: This review is dedicated to Mailen. A great regular user here on this site and I know for a fact that she adores this film as well...
Mars Attacks! is a very remarkable achievement for yet another reason. This very well might be only film that cost a fortune in order to look cheap! Burton probably wasted a huge budget to make the settings and the design look like they did in the typical 50's Science Fiction movies. Burton is a big fan of these movies and he saved neither money or trouble to make his satire look like those films. The direct tribute to Edward Wood in the opening credits is an obvious example of this as well, I think. Perhaps, this would be the only real thing you can accuse Tim Burton of...Mars Attacks! is a very personal project of his. I really doubt he worried much about the question whether Mars Attacks! would become a success or not. He told his tale and he clearly enjoyed doing so...Why wouldn't you enjoy watching it then?
Note: This review is dedicated to Mailen. A great regular user here on this site and I know for a fact that she adores this film as well...
Burton Does Aliens
iquine25 February 2019
Warning: Spoilers
(Flash Review)
This is an amusing and odd little movie with a massive cast of A-listers. As the title implies, aliens storm Earth with oodles of spaceships. The United States with Nicholson as president try to welcome them as friends but are quickly and brazenly attacked by the happy and colorful styled aliens. The rest of the movie is everyone trying to avoid being zapped by their deadly ray guns while trying to find a way to halt their invasion. There is light comedy interwoven as you wait to see which Hollywood star will be zapped next. The special effects, weapons and sound effects are reminiscent to the 50s Martian movies and are well-done. The funniest moment for me was when the military fires a nuke at them, some alien device sucks up the explosion and then an alien smokes the captured nuclear explosion matter with a pipe! Overall, this was fairly thin but strangely amusing.
This is an amusing and odd little movie with a massive cast of A-listers. As the title implies, aliens storm Earth with oodles of spaceships. The United States with Nicholson as president try to welcome them as friends but are quickly and brazenly attacked by the happy and colorful styled aliens. The rest of the movie is everyone trying to avoid being zapped by their deadly ray guns while trying to find a way to halt their invasion. There is light comedy interwoven as you wait to see which Hollywood star will be zapped next. The special effects, weapons and sound effects are reminiscent to the 50s Martian movies and are well-done. The funniest moment for me was when the military fires a nuke at them, some alien device sucks up the explosion and then an alien smokes the captured nuclear explosion matter with a pipe! Overall, this was fairly thin but strangely amusing.
A festival of dreck
jack_thursby26 June 2005
I was really looking forward to this movie because it seemed like a cool sci-fi spoof with a great cast. Even better, I noticed that "Mars Attacks!" was being shown on cable in a late-nite time slot -- the best time for watching a flick like this.
However, my pleasure quickly turned to pain as I actually began watching the movie -- it started out slow and unfunny and did not deviate from that course one iota. I'll say one thing in favor of "Mars Attacks!" -- it is consistent. Nothing works on any level at any time; it doesn't work as a spoof, parody, comedy, satire, etc.. etc... And it is boring, incredibly boring... and when something does happen, it is boring.
I think the main problem with "Mars Attacks!" is that Tim Burton tried too hard and too seriously to make a funny little spoof movie when he is not a director of funny little spoof movies. Burton's successes are with stories that are a little weird, like Edward Scissorhands or Batman (to which he added a dark visionary element). He's not really a comedy director and "Mars Attacks!" really needed a lighter touch to make the material work. Don't waste your time with this, you will only be disappointed as the movie promises so much and delivers so very little.
However, my pleasure quickly turned to pain as I actually began watching the movie -- it started out slow and unfunny and did not deviate from that course one iota. I'll say one thing in favor of "Mars Attacks!" -- it is consistent. Nothing works on any level at any time; it doesn't work as a spoof, parody, comedy, satire, etc.. etc... And it is boring, incredibly boring... and when something does happen, it is boring.
I think the main problem with "Mars Attacks!" is that Tim Burton tried too hard and too seriously to make a funny little spoof movie when he is not a director of funny little spoof movies. Burton's successes are with stories that are a little weird, like Edward Scissorhands or Batman (to which he added a dark visionary element). He's not really a comedy director and "Mars Attacks!" really needed a lighter touch to make the material work. Don't waste your time with this, you will only be disappointed as the movie promises so much and delivers so very little.
Honestly,Mars attacked!
doyce4sub13 May 2004
Warning: Spoilers
After reading some of the other comments, there's only one thing everyone should keep in mind. This film is for laughs and is spoofing the early 50's sci-fi films that some of us grew up watching. In the early film, War of the Worlds, the Martians were killed by micro organisms that were in our atmosphere. Here they were killed by Slim Whitman music. How about when the Martians were chasing people and zapping them while the "translator" machine keep saying "Don't run,we are your friends". The Martians like Tom Jones so much that they joined his back up singers. Every time I watch this film I see something else that's there for a "joke". Don't try to make this movie fit the sci-fi mold; just watch it for the spoofs and enjoy yourself.
Guilty pleasure
MJB78422 May 2018
Worst movie I've ever seen!
theficus27 July 2000
Absolutely horrible movie from start to finish. This B-Movie satire isn't worth the paper the script was written on. A love or hate film for sure, I absolutely hated it. The best part was when it was over. Even Mystery Men, which I also hated was better than this steaming pile of turd.
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