The Invisible Man

The Invisible Man, one of HG Wells' most iconic creations, has seen numerous iterations in cinema. But can it be effectively revamped into the technological #MeToo era?

The film follows Cecilia (Elisabeth Moss), who has fled from an oppressive and abusive relationship with an enigmatic tech mogul (Oliver Jackson-Cohen). Despite escaping, she can’t shake the feeling she's still being stalked, even if no one seems to be around.

Developed by Blumhouse and directed by Saw co-creator Leigh Whannell, this new take is in great hands. The film exudes confidence, knowing exactly what to do with the material and doing so with a focused intensity. Tension is maintained from the very opening shot right until the end, with effective scares and a host of satisfying twists and turns throughout.

This iteration owes less to its roots and more to '80s and '90s psychological thrillers such as Fatal Attraction, Basic Instinct and Dead Calm. The approach feels grounded and thus makes the proceedings all the more horrifying. Whannell’s direction is impressive, especially on the modest budget. The material is strengthened by its excellent and organic use of themes relating to sexual assault, narcissism, consent and surveillance.

Despite the horror and special effects, the film hinges on Moss. She carries the film with strength and vulnerability in the face of the ultimate psychological destruction.

The Invisible Man has never been so relatable and terrifying. It's an exhilarating cinematic experience that will make you question if you are ever really alone.