Lake - Mars Attacks!

Tim Burton’s movie Mars Attacks! satirizes everything about American culture that the American people pride and hold close.  The military, nationalism, capitalism, and most importantly the government and where it chooses to place its focus in a time of crisis.  The film is centered around Martians landing on Earth and the aftermath of said event.  Burton uses Jack Nicholson to show the two different areas of America that are slowly decaying; the government and the money system.  When first learning of the Martian invasion the president goes to his press secretary for advice first and foremost.  This is comical because it shows how in any threatening situation, such as one where our planet is surrounded by hundreds of unknown “war ships,” the president would care more about image and presentation to the public over protecting the world or establishing communication.  When the Martians first came down to Earth’s surface, they were welcomed with a huge, televised ceremony where peace and communication was supposed to be established.  Mr. Super-Professor believed that because the Martians were an advanced technological species that in no way could they be violent or aggressive to the human population.  LOL!  Instead, the Martians (only 5) were able to convince the general public that they came in peace just to wipe out the masses that came out to celebrate the occasion.  This also pokes fun at the military’s ability to function against an unknown entity.  5 Martians were able to take down military personnel, tanks, helicopters, and most importantly a seemingly endless crowd of American citizens.  The military leader tells his wife that he has finally made it because of his ability to not make enemies and keep his mouth shut.  That is quite the leader for an event of such magnitude.  Art Land embodies the corruption and greed that has consumed business and the money system.  Art Land is focused on creating the most popular hotel in Las Vegas and will do so at any cost.  He does not care about other people, the planet, or the aftermath of his business venture.  He just sees an opportunity to increase his wealth and power in pursuit of the almighty dollar.  Overall, Burton uses Mars Attacks! to provide a cynical commentary on American society in a comedic way.  This is not unusual for Burton because he is known for making fun of pretty serious things, such as death and the afterlife.