
Reels, Booze & Bro’s aka RB2 hosts Brian & Jay, along with Reel Bro fan Kev and Shane, bring celebrate Independence Day with Independence Day! Yes, Will Smith in his golden years fighting aliens and saving world. Get ramped up with The President’s speech and let’s kick E.T.’s ass. Tune in to find out the rest and the booze we associated with this classic Reel.
Independence Day: A Classic Alien Invasion Movie with Thrilling Action and Iconic Lines
Are you ready to revisit one of the most memorable and thrilling sci-fi movies of the 90s? Buckle up for an action-packed ride with Independence Day, the epic alien invasion film directed by Roland Emmerich and released in 1996. Starring Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, and Randy Quaid, this movie has become a classic of its genre, with its gripping story, impressive visual effects, and unforgettable moments that have entered pop culture. In this review, we’ll delve into what makes Independence Day a must-watch for any fan of sci-fi, action, or adventure movies.
The story of Independence Day begins with the arrival of massive alien ships over several major cities around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C. As panic spreads among the inhabitants of Earth, the US government scrambles to prepare a defense against the extraterrestrial threat. Among the characters we meet are Captain Steven Hiller, a Marine Corps pilot played by Will Smith, David Levinson, a brilliant but eccentric satellite technician played by Jeff Goldblum, and President Thomas J. Whitmore, portrayed by Bill Pullman, who must lead the nation during this crisis. Other notable performances include Randy Quaid as Russell Casse, a troubled Vietnam veteran who becomes an unlikely hero, and Vivica A. Fox as Jasmine Dubrow, Hiller’s girlfriend and a single mother trying to protect her son.
One of the highlights of Independence Day is undoubtedly the stunning visual effects that bring the alien invasion to life. From the massive shadow cast by the ships as they approach the cities to the explosions and destruction they cause, the movie is a visual feast that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The action scenes are also top-notch, with thrilling dogfights between the alien and human aircraft, intense shootouts on the ground, and a memorable final showdown inside the mothership. The score by composer David Arnold adds to the tension and excitement, with its sweeping orchestral themes and haunting choir vocals.
Independence Day was a massive commercial success, grossing over $800 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1996. It was also well-received by critics, who praised its special effects, action sequences, and ensemble cast. The movie has since become a cultural touchstone, with many of its lines and scenes entering the collective memory of moviegoers. Who can forget the iconic shot of the White House exploding, or the rousing speech given by President Whitmore before the final battle? Independence Day has also spawned a sequel, Independence Day: Resurgence, released in 2016, though it did not achieve the same level of critical or commercial success as the original.
If you’re in the mood for a thrilling, action-packed, and classic sci-fi movie, Independence Day is the perfect choice. With its iconic moments, memorable characters, and impressive visual effects, it’s a movie that’s sure to keep you entertained from start to finish. Plus, who doesn’t love a good alien invasion story? So grab some booze, turn up the volume, and enjoy the ride!
Booze we had for the podcast

- Style: IPA – American
- ABV: 6.5%
- From: Jughandle Brewing Co.

- Style: IPA – New England
- ABV: 7.3%
- From: Revolution Brewing Company