'The Invisible Man' A Review

The Invisible Man is a horror/thriller about Cecilia(Elisabeth Moss) who's trapped in a controlling abusive relationship with wealthy silicon valley optics engineer Adrian(Oliver Jackson-Cohen). The film opens with Cecilia carefully and methodically escaping from Adrian's lavish prison-like estate. Two weeks later recuperating with ex-brother-in-law James(Aldis Hodge) and niece Sydney(Storm Reid) Cecilia is informed of Adrian's suicide. Shortly there after strange occurrences lead Cecilia to believe Adrian isn't dead after all.

Moss, as should be no surprise if you've tracked her career over the past decade, brings incredible emotion, power, and vulnerability to the role. An Oscar level performance in what is, in essence, a micro-budget horror. There are some faults of logic in the script but most of the productions shagginess are forgiven in the sheer volume and force of will of Moss's performance. The supporting cast are all adequate- Hodge and Reid specifically offer a much needed grounding factor and Michael Dorman as Adrian's serpentine brother is kind of wonderfully transparently evil- but none are given much screentime or room to flush out their characters. Which is fine, Moss is the justifiable lead and around her swirl the mystery and action and spookiness which is, again justly, the focus of the film.

In addition to Moss the other thing that elevates the film beyond B-movie status is the direction from Leigh Whannell, fresh off the underrated Upgrade, who brings a patience, clarity, and seriousness this type of movie don't always receive. The production is crisp and muted and the use of CGI is incredibly judicious making shots of empty doorways or slow pans to an empty chair just as or more impactful than the moments we actually see or observe the actions of the titular villain. There's an extended scene in a restaurant which is a best of the year contender.

Although not completely flushed out the film incorporates and acknowledges the position of Cecilia coming from a domestic abuse, stalking type situation and maps the conceit of the villain to our current era. So it feels both serious and comments on/incorporates MeToo while also being a satisfying piece of horror with the large thrilling set pieces that implies.

A surprising and perfect blend of tone and genre with incredible emotional stakes. Available for rent on most VOD platforms.

See It.