Horripilations Review of The Invisible Man (2020)

Movie Review: The Invisible Man (2020)

Synopsis:

The Invisible Man (2020), directed by Leigh Whannell, is a modern reinterpretation of H.G. Wells’ classic story. The film follows Cecilia Kass, portrayed by Elisabeth Moss, who escapes a toxic and abusive relationship with a wealthy scientist named Adrian Griffin, played by Oliver Jackson-Cohen. After faking his own death, Adrian uses his advanced technology to turn himself invisible, stalking and terrorising Cecilia. As she struggles to prove her sanity and expose Adrian’s sinister machinations, Cecilia’s journey becomes a tense exploration of trauma, gaslighting, and the fight for freedom against an unseen opponent.

The film opens with a tense and expertly crafted sequence that establishes Cecilia, locked in a claustrophobic relationship, attempting to flee Adrian’s grasp. As she escapes, Cecilia finds refuge with her friend James (Aldis Hodge) and his teenage daughter, Sydney (Storm Reid). However, her torment is far from over; as strange incidents escalate, she becomes convinced that Adrian has returned and is watching her, leading to a chilling battle for survival and validation.

List of Actors and Their Characters:

• Elisabeth Moss as Cecilia Kass
• Oliver Jackson-Cohen as Adrian Griffin
• Aldis Hodge as James Lanier
• Storm Reid as Sydney Lanier
• Harriet Dyer as Emily Kass
• Michael Dorman as the police officer
• Ben Harlan as an elderly man
• Angela da Silva as the nurse

Review:

The Invisible Man (2020) is much more than a horror movie; it’s a finely crafted psychological thriller that probes into the complexities of abuse and the implications of invisibility—both literal and metaphorical. Leigh Whannell has successfully breathed new life into a familiar tale, transforming it into a contemporary narrative that resonates deeply with modern audiences.

What makes the film striking is not just the concept of invisibility, but the clever interplay it has with the subject of domestic violence. Cecilia’s experience of being hunted and doubted brings a visceral authenticity to the narrative. The film does not shy away from depicting the aftermath of abuse; instead, it confronts it head-on. There are moments of palpable tension that showcase Cecilia’s attempts to regain her autonomy, with her isolation serving as a poignant reminder of psychological trauma and societal disbelief.

Elisabeth Moss delivers an exceptional performance as Cecilia, showcasing a range of emotions that tug at the heartstrings. Moss embodies vulnerability and strength in a way that feels both authentic and relatable. Her character’s desperation, as she battles her internal demons alongside an external threat, is beautifully rendered. The audience feels every ounce of her fear, rage, and determination as she unravels the twisted machinations of her tormentor.

Oliver Jackson-Cohen’s portrayal of Adrian is equally commendable. The character, while physically absent for much of the film, looms large through the narrative and in Cecilia’s psyche. His portrayal of a manipulative and controlling partner is chilling and unsettling, perfectly encapsulating the film’s tension. The use of sound design to hint at his presence—creaks in the floorboards, disturbances in the air—adds to the horror element, creating a sense of dread that permeates throughout the film.

Aldis Hodge provides a solid supporting performance as James, Cecilia’s friend and protector. His character embodies empathy and a steadfast commitment to Cecilia’s well-being, providing a stark contrast to Adrian’s cold manipulation. Storm Reid, as Sydney, also serves as a breath of fresh air, showing the innocence of youth and the strength to stand against evil.

Whannell’s directorial choices enhance the psychological horror. From the film’s visceral sound design to its chilling cinematography, every frame invites the audience into Cecilia’s world, building tension that grips tightly and does not relent. The use of empty spaces to illustrate Cecilia’s paranoia is particularly effective, leaving the viewers searching for what might be lurking just beyond their sight, mirroring Cecilia’s own fear.

However, the film is not without its flaws. A few plot points could have been more thoroughly explored, and certain character developments might feel rushed to some viewers. For instance, the police’s dismissive attitude towards Cecilia raises questions of systemic failures, but these themes are not as deeply delved into as one might hope. Additionally, although the final act delivers a shocking reveal, some may find it slightly predictable, as it follows a formula familiar to genre enthusiasts.

Despite these minor criticisms, the emotional weight of the film and its exploration of profound themes outweigh any shortcomings. The Invisible Man taps into the very real anxiety surrounding issues of trust and perception in relationships, depicting the struggle for one’s sanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. In doing so, it speaks to a broader audience about the horrors that many endure away from the public eye.

The film’s conclusion is both triumphant and tragic—a balance that Whannell strikes with finesse. As the credits roll, viewers are left to ponder the true cost of freedom and the lengths one may go to reclaim it. The Invisible Man resonates on multiple levels, effectively marrying horror with a poignant social commentary that lingers long after viewing.

In conclusion, The Invisible Man (2020) is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that modernises a classic tale while addressing pressing contemporary issues. With standout performances, superb direction, and a gripping narrative, it serves not only as entertainment but as a commentary on the darker aspects of human relationships. Leigh Whannell has successfully crafted a tense and chilling experience that deserves recognition as a standout film in the horror genre.

Score: 8.5/10