The original "Invisible Man", with Claude Rains, is one of the greatest horror milestones Universal Studios ever produced, but it will sadly also always remain the most underrated one; especially in comparison to films like "Frankenstein", "The Wolf Man" and "Dracula" which received a lot more recognition and cult following. This sequel, released a good seven years after the original, isn't a very phenomenal or spectacular movie but it's definitely interesting enough to track down and watch for a number of reasons. "The Invisible Man Returns" boosts one of the first leading roles of the legendary Vincent Price – the very first horror role even, if you don't count the historical drama/horror hybrid "Tower of London" – although you'll have to be extremely patient if you want to catch a glimpse of his charismatic face. At the beginning of the film, Geoffrey Radcliffe (Price) is in jail, only a couple of hours away from wrongfully being hung for the murder on his brother, with whom he shared the ownership of a coal mine. Geoffrey escapes, thanks to the help of his friend Dr. Griffin who smuggled in the famous drug that makes you invisible. Now Geoffrey can search for the real murderer, but he will have to hurry because the drug reputedly drives you insane, like what happened to Dr. Griffin's brother in the original. "Revenge of the Invisible Man" is a clever and wittily scripted sequel with a plot that at least doesn't blindly cash in on the original. The story introduces some praiseworthy other themes, like murder mystery and conspiracy theories. There isn't that much action, but many of the special effects remain fascinating to look at even though they are basic illustrations of ordinary handlings. Certain sequences are also extremely atmospheric and suspenseful, like when Geoffrey confronts the real murderer with the facts or when he uses a gas-resistant Darth Vader costume to escape from a mansion infested with Scotland Yard inspectors. The film even gets better when Geoffrey's madness kicks in and he openly begins to fantasize about dictatorship, tremendous powers and perverse possibilities. It is exactly then where you recognize the REAL Vincent Price. A guy who petrifies people with his boisterous voice and maniacal laughter even if you can't see his face.
Review of The Invisible Man Returns
