1996
Like the Jews awaiting their savior, in the summer of ’96, few moments in time held anticipation, like the soon to be released “Independence Day,” on July 3rd.
Directed by Roland Emmerich, the dystopian epic blockbuster, was like riding the Six Flags thrill ride,”The Great American Scream Machine.” However, instead of loops “Independence Day” was filled with extraterrestrial invasions, campy camaraderie, and patriotism, not seen since “Born on the “4th of July.”
Set against the backdrop of July 3rd, Earth faces an imminent threat from technologically advanced alien beings, who were not very nice Aliens, like Elon Musk. The narrative resonated deeply with the spirit of the decade.
The best of ’90s action cinema, our story begins with the Fresh Prince of Belle Air, observing the arrival of an alien spacecraft, that hovers over major cities worldwide.
Instilling fear and panic among Earth’s inhabitants, The Fresh Prince whose reputation was still intact, is setup to be an iconic hero, the likes not seen since King Henry V.
This mundane lives of ordinary people quickly change against the back drop of the looming threat, of an otherworldly force, capable of global devastation.
With common middle school archetypal roles prevalent in ’90s films: the charismatic fighter pilot, the resourceful scientist, the determined president, and the plucky civilian hero, played by The Fresh Prince, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, and Randy Quaid, the hero’s find themselves locked in epic battle that is less natural disaster and more reminiscent of what happens when technology decides to devour natural resources in its quest for singularity.
The scale of the alien spacecraft, city-wide destruction, and aerial combat; the iconic imagery of the White House being obliterated not by politicians but an aerial laser beam, remains etched in the collective consciousness of my memories, locked in perpetuate, symbolizing the vulnerability of humans against superior technology.
The juxtaposition of serene landscapes and the Earth’s imminent devastation, emphasizes the contrast between beauty and brutality; a visual motif that underscores the film’s dystopian themes.
The deafening roar of alien spacecraft and the thunderous explosions of cityscapes, underscore the siege humanity now faces. The film’s visceral impact, heightening the tension and suspense throughout the culturally reflective narrative.
At its core, “Independence Day” explores themes of unity, sacrifice, resilience, love and power; in the face of existential threats; and embodies a sense of reflection of ’90s cultural anxieties and aspirations.
The film celebrates the indomitable human spirit, embodied in characters not heard since Shakespeare’s “King Henry V,” who defy the odds to protect the one’s they love.
The era’s ethos of perseverance in the face of adversity, echoed in the music of the day, and making a comeback today, is a subtle reminder that despite our years of difference, we are all not so different in our quest for liberty.
This is seen most clearly in connections with 90’s fears of technological vulnerability and the specter of global conflict, while facing a being that has reached the point of the singularity.
Thus, the film’s depiction of alien invasion serves as a metaphor for contemporary anxieties about the unpredictability of technology, where new threats emerge on a global scale. Today, in 2024, thanks to Musk and his Nerolink technology, art is imitating life, again, in a lesson we have already learned!
Our fascination with apocalyptic narratives and extraterrestrial encounters, stands a quintessential example of ’90s dystopian cinema. “Independence Day” reverberates the ideals that captivate audiences, though strongly lack in today’s human condition, where fear and group think, overwhelm tales of heroism, unity, and resilience. Thus, leading those of us encountering middle age, to be longing for a better time, when courage mattered, honesty meant something, and Will Smith was still cool.
Andrew Ferri 