Why Do Aliens Attack America in Movies Like Independence Day?

Introduction

In movies such as Independence Day, the portrayal of alien invasions often centers on the United States as a primary target. This focus raises the question: does Hollywood specifically choose America as the main battleground for aliens, or is there a broader reason behind this trend?

Hollywood's Choice: The American Perspective

Many would argue that Hollywood, the heart of the American film industry, has a tendency to focus on American audiences and themes. This can be seen in numerous blockbuster films where the United States is at the center of the story. Independence Day, for example, emphasizes the American response and perspective. While the film doesn't explicitly state that the aliens targeted only America, the narrative chosen by the filmmakers is rooted in the idea of a united and resilient America facing a global threat.

By highlighting America's military capabilities and its role in the story, the film also touches on themes of unity, resilience, and patriotism. These themes resonate strongly with the American audience, making the story relatable and emotionally engaging. Hollywood often centers American viewpoints in its blockbuster films to ensure wide appeal and box office success.

Is Home Base the Target?

Is it merely a coincidence that most alien invasion movies, including Independence Day and War of the Worlds, center around the United States? Could it be that Hollywood has a kind of 'America-first' mentality, as suggested by some? A closer look at other films such as The Doctor and Attack the Block may offer some insights.

War of the Worlds, a British adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic novel, presents a different perspective. In this version, Britain faces the greatest threat, which might suggest that the difficulty faced in the war is not purely fictional. It's possible that the portrayal of America as the primary target is influenced by the state of the country, or perhaps Hollywood's inclination to center American viewpoints.

The Realistic Alternative

Some might argue that films like My Manor, which portrays more realistic responses to alien invasions, offer a more objective view of these events. In this film, a combination of local residents and military personnel works together to defend London. This alternative narrative challenges the common Hollywood trope of America being the initial and foremost target.

It's worth noting that the choice of country as the primary target in alien invasion films can also be influenced by the personal experiences and cultural backgrounds of the filmmakers. Many alien invasion narratives, such as Doctor Who, often highlight Great Britain as the hardest hit by alien attacks, suggesting that the writers may be targeting their home audience.

Conclusion

While the portrayal of alien attacks in films like Independence Day may seem to prioritize America, this is likely a combination of Hollywood's focus on American audiences, the cultural background of the filmmakers, and the desire to resonate with patriotic themes. However, films from other countries, such as War of the Worlds and Attack the Block, offer alternative perspectives that challenge the dominance of American stories in this genre.