So it is a new decade of film we are entering. How auspicious this moment is. Not that the major studios really expect usher it in with grand statements of purpose. And why should they? Shallowness and making money is the name of the game. A slew of inept adaptations have flooded the theaters of late, from “Dolittle” to “The Turning” that failed to connect. Most prognosticators believe it is the source material that no one cares about. They are dead wrong; giving it life and meaning is the key. That is what Leigh Whannell has done with his recent thriller.
Does anyone remember the film “Hollow Man” from the 90s? Some might recall it as better than it is. And the reason? It is not scary seeing what should be invisible. Here, Whannell relies on suggestive camera movements and point of view shots that play on our perspective. That’s when the fear sets in for us. It is like the shark in “Jaws”, the less we see the better.
This film would not work without a capable lead either. Played excellently by Elizabeth Moss it is through her portrayal of Cecilia that we understand the danger she faces. So as things start to get weird for her later we aren’t sure of what we are seeing. What she sees can’t be corroborated by anyone but her. The sense of gaslighting and controlling behavior could prove very hard to watch for anyone going through abuse or PTSD. We are dropped into her situation from the start and can only realize the depths of her former lover’s grip on her as the film unfolds.
The Invisible Man
Rating: ★★★
Rated R for strong violence and language
Directed by Leigh Whannell
Starring Elizabeth Moss et. al
I commend Whannell on this choice. It only makes the discoveries of how far the titular character would go to torment Cecilia part of the mystery. No need to over explain anything, we are along for the ride with you. The director has shown himself very adept in the past. I would suggest those to check out his last film “Upgrade” if you are not squeamish, although there are some similar moments in this film as well. And you will happy to see his disorientating action camera work reincorporated in the climax of “Man.”
Much has been said about whether or not this is going to be a part of Universal’s bid at a great franchise. Their failed attempt at “The Mummy” with Tom Cruise and “The Wolfman”(2010) has sort of put a final nail in the coffin of their Dark Universe. But why should we be getting a Marvel-style series out these characters? This film is leaps and bounds over the original Claude Rains film, and far from the source novel by H.G. Wells. As the comic book era comes to a close (time will tell), we need to look at films as self-contained and well-told. Don’t just market to us Hollywood, make it relevant.
