I can see why many people did not enjoy this movie. However, I think those who have read the book, or heard the radio broadcast, or seen the
1953 version of the movie appreciate what Spielberg made (a modern adaptation). I think the only reason it ended like it did was because Spielberg didn't want everyone to run out into the streets and kill themselves. He wanted some kind of catharsis at the end of the movie to bring the mood up a bit more than just "oh the aliens died from diseases the end."
Robbie's survival should have been explained at least in brief detail. The whole entire hillside is engulfed in flames so it would have been cool to have seen how he didn't die there.
The movie was intense but not horrifying. I think there are more horrifying movies to date that are based on actual events.
And yes, that's how the book and movies have all ended. The aliens had no immunity to our everyday diseases and die. So I guess if you're unhappy with that ending, take it up with H.G. Wells.
I'm interested in seeing the
Pendragon version of the movie which is supposedly very accurate in comparison to the book and is in the correct historical time frame as well.