A marine staff sargeant, Sgt. Michael Nantz (Aaron Eckhert), all set for retirement, is re-deployed when strange meteors begin crashing in the ocean. He learns that they're not meteors at all but alien ships. The weird craft--and creatures--come to shore, killing everything in their path. Clearly, conquest is the plan. But what do they want? Taking a cue from V, the original TV series, they're after our water since it's a rare commodity in the universe. In fact, they power their technology with it.
They are sent to help evacuate civilians in Santa Monica but get trapped and have to somehow get out alive. However, Nantz discovers the hidden location of one of their control centers--and wants a chance to destroy it. There's lots of stereotypical soldier characters, including Michelle Rodriguez (RESIDENT EVIL, LOST) as a tough female soldier.
BATTLE: LOS ANGELES seemsm unfinished, like we're watching an extended scene from INDEPENDENCE DAY or an action scene from the disappointing SKYLINE. If you like war-themed movies, you'll probably like this (aren't they all the same?) However, it's far too familiar for the horror or science-fiction fan.