Based on H.G.Wells pivotal novel "The Invisible Man", James Whale does his best to keep close to the feel, logic and morality of the story. A maddened scientist (Claude Rains) decides to experiment with invisibility on himself, unknowing the profound side effects of mental psychosis, which the drug induces. When turning invisible Dr. Jack Griffin leaves home and takes refuge in a local inn, where he attempts to reverse the formula. There he becomes increasingly violent and irrational, slowly using his power to dominate the surroundings.
A classic horror movie from way back introduces some spectacularly well-made special effects, making it impressive, regardless of technical limitations. Naturally a certain feel for the times and the acting norms is necessary, as the American movies were still adapting to the new form of entertainment and overzealous performances were pretty much the norm. Nonetheless "The Invisible Man" remains much more absorbing and effective than most of its contemporaries, mainly due to a faceless, but menacing Rains, who brings forth a sense of lingering insanity. The story itself feels much more rigid, than most future remakes, sequels and such, as the cause of the madness is left to a grey area between the addiction to power and chemical imbalance. Definitely ages well, although I still much more enjoy the Kevin Bacon version, as a more complete and powerful execution of the concept.
A classic horror movie from way back introduces some spectacularly well-made special effects, making it impressive, regardless of technical limitations. Naturally a certain feel for the times and the acting norms is necessary, as the American movies were still adapting to the new form of entertainment and overzealous performances were pretty much the norm. Nonetheless "The Invisible Man" remains much more absorbing and effective than most of its contemporaries, mainly due to a faceless, but menacing Rains, who brings forth a sense of lingering insanity. The story itself feels much more rigid, than most future remakes, sequels and such, as the cause of the madness is left to a grey area between the addiction to power and chemical imbalance. Definitely ages well, although I still much more enjoy the Kevin Bacon version, as a more complete and powerful execution of the concept.