Nobody suspects that intelligent life exists on other planets until an enormous cylinder falls to Earth and lands in the English town of Woking. From this ominous metallic cylinder emerge the unsightly Martians, equipped with terrifying killing machines. Although the Martians initially provoke local curiosity, this rapidly turns to fear as the attacks begin and soon spread to London. With the security of the human race under threat and the power of the Martians ever mounting, authorities must act fast.