The Invisible Man Returns
Released in 1940
Directed by Joe May
“we’ve got orders to shoot on sight”
“i thought you said he was invisible!?”
The Invisible Man Returns was Vincent Price’s fourth movie. Some say it was Price’s first venture into the horror genre, but that is debatable; it is more of a sci-fi thriller than a horror flick. This movie is the first sequel to the original Invisible Man. Unlike most sequels, however, The Invisible Man Returns is a good movie. Technically Vincent Price is the main character, but we don’t actually see his face until the last scene in the film. His presence is mostly established by his unique voice acting.
So how does Vincent Price become the next invisible man?
The Invisible Man Returns movie poster starring Vincent Price
While all this is happening, we are continually treated to the numerous special effects employed to create the illusion of an invisible man. For a movie of its age I was expecting some fairly cheesy effects, but was surprised by how well executed they were. The effects, although not jaw dropping for a jaded modern viewer, are still neat to watch. IMDB lists this movie as being nominated for an Academy Award for Special Effects.
The cast and script are both good as well. I enjoyed pretty much every performance in the film, even the supporting cast. Vincent Price’s voice acting is superb, and he displays a wide range of characterization in his lines. He goes from frantic fugitive to self-deprecating lover to vengeful ghost to insane babbler to ordinary Geoffrey, while managing to infuse his character with a sympathetic quality. John Sutton puts on a good show as Dr. Griffin. Sutton is similar to Price in that he possessed a distinctive voice. You might recognize him if you are a Vincent Price fan because they acted in a lot of movies together. Sir Cedric Hardwicke and Nan Grey give notable performances as well.
Vincent Price’s first horror movie? Maybe. Vincent Price’s first sci-fi thriller? Yes. Either way you should watch this movie.