The Invisible Man (2020) - USA / Australia
Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)
Inspired by the 1897 H.G. Wells novel of the same name, this is a modern reworking in light of the #metoo movement, Director Leigh Whannell (previously made and crafted “Saw” and “Insidious”) made this interpretation extremely unique, breathtaking and edge of your seat thriller. Aided by the excellent Elisabeth Moss who is perfectly casted as the abused wife of “The Invisible Man”. In this film, the audience follows the camera and in doing so, we are immersed into every situation that Moss is being thrown at in face of a battle against the odds, whether it is in the home of her friend, in bed or in a mental institution. We starred into spaces, empty sofas and kitchen tops looking for signs of presence of the invisible man. It is that effective as perused.
Elizabeth Moss is spot on as the tormented and abused lover of an ultra rich optic founder turned “Invisible Man”. Moss emotes generously and never for a moment produced a dull moment. Her face is expressive as is her layered emotions that comes in full circle as she almost goes crazy in the process. Aldi’s Hodge does well as James, the friend and the cop as he provides a steady presence in view of everything that is so unsettling.
All in all, “The Invisible Man” is an interesting addition to the horror/thriller staple that have gone cliche in the recent years. This is an interesting and fascinating thriller that keeps the audience at the edge of their sit, not knowing how Moss can or cannot outsmart this “invisible man”. Most notably the restaurant murder scene remains a shock and highlight. This is easily a delightful and thrilling film for genre fans to enjoy.
I rated it 8/10