This re-imagining of the classic film eschews all the bad blood 2000’s Hollow Man brought to the concept, and brings a full-tilt, expertly-crafted psychological terror to the forefront.
Writer-director Leigh Whannell escapes the trappings of his writing credits — including the Insidious and Saw films — and makes a horror film that foregoes cheap, schlock jump-scares for true, building frights. He earns your fear, and that’s what makes Invisible Man so incredible.
The story of Cecilia, who escapes her genius tech billionaire abusive ex for a new life, takes a turn when he dies in an apparent suicide. Leaving her $5-million, she’s suspicious from the start. When her world begins to become upended, she tries to prove her ex Adrian has, in fact, used his tech to become invisible.
Elisabeth Moss is incredible here, in a role that leaves the viewer questioning where their allegiance should lie for at least some part of the running-time. She anchors the story, keeping it from becoming ridiculous or pandering.
The grounded script, intense build-up and shocking finale make for an unexpected and intense night at the cinema. Just make sure you have someone lined up to sleep next to you. The Invisible Man will leave you double-checking closets and suspicious of home creaks for nights after your viewing.
4.5/5 Stars