‘The Invisible Man’ DVD Review: A Smart and Empowering Horror Flick

The Invisible Man is the latest film in Universal’s classic monster remakes. It did incredibly well when it released in theaters earlier this year – bringing in $29 million opening weekend. However, it didn’t really have the longevity in theaters that it deserved due to COVID-19. It was one of the last films to release in theaters before everything closed down earlier this year.

The movie, based on the 1897 novel of the same name by H.G. Wells, follows a modern tale of obsession inspired by Universal’s classic monster character. Cecilia Kass (Elisabeth Moss) slowly begins to rebuild her life after the death of her abusive ex-boyfriend (Oliver Jackson-Cohen). But before long, she begins to question whether or not he is truly gone.

In addition to the film, this Blu-Ray release includes twenty minutes of exclusive bonus content, including a chance to get better acquainted with the film’s leading actress: Elisabeth Moss (who deserves an Oscar for her work here). There’s also feature commentary with the writer/director and deleted scenes you won’t want to miss.

Check out the trailer below.

The Invisible Man DVD Review: What I Liked and Didn’t Like

In short, I really, really liked this film. I’ve gotten used to expecting a thriller every spring (looking at you, Jordan Peele), and this movie more than delivers.

Even though The Invisible Man gets categorized under the horror genre, it’s way more of a psychological thriller. The plot isn’t that far-fetched. And while the movie may feature some futuristic tech – the way it’s presented seems pretty plausible. For me, films like these are the “best horror films.” They’re smart, and they could happen (or feel like they could).

There are two elements here that I think make this movie a success – Elisabeth Moss (who is absolutely fantastic in this role), and director Leigh Whannel, who did an incredible job of making the fear of the unknown palpable in every scene. We’re all afraid of the unknown, and this film poignantly plays into that fear by creating the feeling of an invisible presence at every uneasy moment. You don’t know what’s coming, and you don’t know how to protect yourself. You’re helpless.

Simply put, this film is stressful. But in a way that deserves recognition – as it gives us a tiny glimpse into better understanding domestic abuse. And that’s the larger conversation at play here. The real horror story is how domestic abuse is viewed and treated in our country. Without evidence of abuse, women that live in these types of relationships are bearing the same burden as Moss’ character in this film. Think about that for a moment…

Overview

Overall, The Invisible Man is a solid reinvention of a classic monster movie. It delivers non-stop tension with its tight pacing – making every scene stressful for the viewer. And beyond that, it’s not just a “horror” film – but a thought-provoking look at how women are controlled, manipulated, and emotionally and physically harmed in abusive relationships. It’s a roller coaster ride from beginning to end, and one of the best horror releases of recent times. It’s empowering and smart – and, in my opinion, on-par with the new high standards of what spring horror films should be.

The Invisible Man DVD Review: Overview

Blu-Ray Features

• Deleted Scenes
• MOSS MANIFESTED – Elisabeth Moss describes the physical and emotional challenges she faced while portraying Cecilia, a woman whose truth is constantly questioned by those around her.
• DIRECTOR’S JOURNEY WITH LEIGH WHANNELL – Director Leigh Whannell acts as a tour guide through principal photography, from day 1 to day 40.
• THE PLAYERS – Filmmakers and cast provide an in-depth analysis of each character and how they interact with the unseen terror of THE INVISIBLE MAN.
• TIMELESS TERROR – A behind the scenes look at how writer/director Leigh Whannell re-imagined this iconic character through the lens of modern technology and socially relatable themes.
• Featured Commentary with Writer/Director Leigh Whannell

Grade: A-

The Invisible Man is now available on Digital, 4K UHD, Blu-ray™ and DVD!