The Invisible Man (2020) is a modern reimagining of H.G. Wells’ classic novel, directed by Leigh Whannell. The story revolves around Cecilia Kass, played by Elisabeth Moss, who escapes an abusive relationship with a wealthy and brilliant scientist, Adrian Griffin. Soon after, she learns that Adrian has died by suicide, but strange occurrences lead her to believe that Adrian may still be alive — invisible and tormenting her. The movie masterfully balances psychological horror with themes of domestic abuse and gaslighting, making Cecilia’s journey toward survival a deeply emotional and terrifying one.
What I found particularly captivating about The Invisible Man was how it turns an old sci-fi premise into a very relevant story about control and trauma. Elisabeth Moss delivers an outstanding performance, showcasing the mental strain and fear her character endures. The suspense builds masterfully, with minimal but effective use of special effects to create tension. The film’s ability to make the unseen so terrifying is impressive, making you question every shadow and empty space.
One interesting fact about the movie is that it was made on a relatively modest budget of $7 million but went on to gross over $143 million worldwide. This success proves that a strong narrative and performance can surpass the need for a massive budget, especially in the horror genre. The movie’s subtlety and psychological depth drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat, making it one of the more intelligent horror-thrillers I’ve seen in recent years.