The War of the Worlds

Earth is invaded by Martian neighbors, who take control of the planet.

This rather ancient version of the Sci-Fi classic captures the essence of the original story so much better than the 2005 version, in spite of all the spectacular special effects used by the latter. Inevitably transferred to a US setting, it retains the feel of genuine terror as described by H. G. Wells, and wisely chooses to portray the Martian machines in a form which works surprisingly well considering the limited technology of the day.