The Invisible Man was created by writer H.G. Wells, who’s considered by many to be the father of science fiction. Not to be confused with Ralph Ellison’s notable Black Americana novel, this Invisible Man is an icon in the horror movie world. He’s right up there with Frankenstein, Dracula, or Freddy Krueger. One should always expect frights and thrills when it comes to the Invisible Man, because you’ll never know when or where he’s coming.
Loosely based on Wells’ creation, The Invisible Man (2020) remakes and re-imagines the story to great success. It’s considered some of the best films of 2020 (which is saying a lot) and has a Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Story: When Cecilia’s (Elizabeth Moss) abusive ex takes his own life and leaves her his fortune, she suspects his death was a hoax. As a series of coincidences turn lethal, Cecilia works to prove that she is being hunted by someone nobody can see. (Courtesy of IMDB)
What I Loved: This is the ultimate metaphor for abusive relationships. So much so this movie falls under feminist horror – a genre which can focus on common gender fears via complex female leads. Cecilia, our victim/protagonist, opens the film escaping from a toxic and abusive relationship. She flinches at everything and even when its reported that he killed himself, she still feels his presence. Soon she’s being stalked by an invisible assailant. Her cries for help are invisible. It’s like she never left him. It’s surprising how many survivors out there can relate to that dread.
The film delivers on the scares aided by fantastic camera work and acting. Every moment of the first act right up to the mid-point of the film is heavy with tension.
I’d also like to point out the positive representation of black fathers and a black family. It’s so rare on the big screen that it seems progressive. Even though they were supporting cast, Aldis Hodge and Storm Reid did a fantastic job at building the world of their characters. And this could certainly be said of all the cast.
My Verdict: Blumhouse Productions has another hit. The film does get a little long on the tooth (it’s roughly 2 hours), but it keeps its heart-racing pace and definitely is a must watch this Halloween season. There’s enough mystery and scare in here to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Stay ghoulish! And as we near Halloween, stick around of an extra special treat.
Thanks for putting this film into a different perspective. I wasn’t impressed but from this lens, I can appreciate the movie more.
I can see why you weren’t impressed with it, but I’m glad you could see it from another POV.