I hold H.G. Wells' novel, "The Invisible Man" in high regard, as well as the 1933, James Whale/Claude Rains classic, in addition to the many spinoffs (television series included) which have materialized over the decades.
For 2020, we're served another edition, written and directed by Leigh "Saw" Whannel: not quite "Hollow Man" per its modernization, but an engrossing, current-day thriller nevertheless, bracketed by the expected, science-fiction and horror elements.
The focus, however, bypasses Wells' erratic Dr. (Adrian) Griffin, portrayed by Oliver Jackson-Cohen, and falls instead on his girlfriend/victim, Cecilia Kass, portrayed by Elizabeth "Mad Men" Moss. Griffin (this version tells us) has always been a callous, controlling chap, even prior to his invisibility tinkering. For the sake of Whannel's retelling, the presumed-dead scientist goes on to stalk his dear Cecilia, much as would a belligerent ghost.
Cecilia reports her suspicions to friends and relations (Harriet Dyer, Storm Reed, Aldis Hodge and Michael Dorman), but her claim appears incredible, making look insane. Meanwhile, the addled Griffin ascends his abusive actions to the next surreptitious level.
The set-up molds "Invisible Man '20" into a convincing, cat-and-mouse joust, but its crust is more a tale of high-tech bullying than insanity-slipping analysis. On this basis, "Invisible Man '20" becomes a face-value, monster movie within its chic dynamic. For fans of the genre, that's a good thing.
Alas, the monster in this instance is marginal. Griffin doesn't engage in impetuous exchanges with Cecilia nor does he sport creepy bandages and oddball spectacles for the sojourn. These omissions limit his presence, although he remains ever present.
Even with Griffin's classic traits stripped, "Invisible Man '20" still sparks the scares, but part of me wonders if a frightening, period-piece version may have been preferable for the big screen. On the other hand, the likes of Netflix, EPIX or the BBC could yet return Griffin to his egotistical roots. Gosh, if "The War of the Worlds" has resurfaced with near-simultaneous versions (and each within different timelines), why not Well's transparent zealot?
Was it just me, but was there a Predator "growl" accompanying this Invisible Man?
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