So sue me - I liked it. I rather foolishly read some reviews before I went to see this film, and with EVERY single one completely panning the film I was expecting it to be dire. Nevertheless, I have a cinema subscription so it wasn't going to cost me anything, and my brother's girlfriend was mad keen to see it, so off we went.
Having seen it, I can't quite understand the level of contempt felt for this film. It's a modern remake of a fifty odd year old film, of course it's not going to be a shot for shot remake! But I felt that the update was good and the alterations to story line were valid. I also felt, and believe me I'm no fan, that Keanu Reeves did a fairly creditable job. It's not so easy to be THAT wooden, and given that that was his interpretation of the role then I'd say he pulled it off effectively.
The viewing experience brought to mind two other films. The first was 'War of the Worlds' which of course has undergone a similar contemporary restyling and adaptation. I think that TDTESS actually weathered the transition a little better, and I felt more comfortable with it. The other film that springs to mind was the abomination that was 'The Invasion'. Looking at scores and comments, posters here seem to be equating that film with this, when the reality is that they are worlds apart.
I find the criticisms I'm reading about casting, acting, pacing, direction and scripting to be anywhere between brutally harsh and completely unfair. To my surprise as much as anyone's, I enjoyed it and I'd watch it again. Sure, do rent the original - it's a wonderful film. Whilst you're in the video store get 'The Day the Earth Caught Fire' as well - it's equally good. But don't dismiss this worthy effort out of hand.