Unveiling the Unseen: Jeff's Passionate Defense of "Memoirs of an Invisible Man"
In a recent episode of "The Ejectables," Jeff championed John Carpenter's often-overlooked gem, "Memoirs of an Invisible Man." Starring Chevy Chase in a departure from his typical comedic roles, this film blends suspense, action, and humor in a unique take on the classic invisible man concept. Here, Jeff shares his insights, personal connections, and why he believes this film deserves a second look.
What do you like most about the film you defended on "The Ejectables"? Describe the elements of the movie that stand out to you and make it special.
It's a really fun, unique film. Chevy Chase gives one of his best acting performances and the whole ride is engaging. This isn't "Clark Griswold turns invisible". There's real depth to his character here. And those FX - a mix of practical and early ILM stuff - still look fantastic. The score by Shirley Walker is gorgeous. It's one of the first films to carry a score solely created by a woman. Took that many years? There's a lot to like in this film.
What unique aspects of the film do you think the world of cinema could benefit from seeing more of? Discuss specific features or qualities of the film that you believe are valuable and should be more common in movies today.
Instead of straight remakes, take a classic idea and give it a new spin. "Memoirs" does exactly that. The 2020 "Invisible Man" film did exactly that and was a big hit.
How do you feel about the script and screenwriting of the film? Evaluate the writing, dialogue, and storytelling techniques. What aspects of the script do you find particularly strong or innovative?
This is a Frankenstein-picture, which is part of what I love. Frankensteined in that there were so many different but talented voices who contributed (and left), the project really evolved. But the script ends up being tight as-is. Not a minute wasted and a perfect blend of organic comedy in a serious film. By page 16, Chevy is invisible. By page 17, the tension and action is on.
Were there any memorable lines or scenes in the film that you think exemplify the strength of the screenplay? Highlight specific examples from the movie that you believe showcase the script's quality or impact.
"I've lost everything but my soul, and you're not gonna take that away from me. Whatever I become, it's gonna be my choice, not yours."
Can you share a personal connection or memory related to this movie that might have influenced your perspective? Explain if there's any personal experience or background that shaped your appreciation for the film.
Well, yeah. Chevy Chase was huge when I was a kid. Opening weekend must-sees. He stretched and attempted something new for himself, worked with one of the greatest living horror directors and it succeeded creatively in my book. So the fact that it bombed, really ended Chevy's leading man phase, makes me really want to defend it more. He could have done more serious turns had this one hit. The fact that the broad and rather bland National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation still towers over almost everything kinda bugs me. The original Harold Ramis National Lampoon's Vacation is a brilliant and near-perfect comedy, but that needs no defending.
Were there any surprising reactions or new insights you gained during the discussion on the show? Reflect on any new perspectives or unexpected responses that emerged during the panel discussion.
Still such a polarizing film (glad Bill liked it though!) I realize in retrospect, you'd appreciate the film more or perhaps connect with the Chevy-character if you were a fan who knew he was doing something different and wanted to go along with this ride. And if you didn't already come into this hating Chevy Chase because of all those on-set nightmare stories. But you don't have to work with him here, you just have to watch.
I wouldn't make this the first Chevy Chase movie you see. But if you know where he came from, how he grew comedically and held his own as a leading man without leaning on pratfalls (though there are great gags in the film), I think you'd like it more. Kinda like John Wayne's The Shootist from 1976. Great picture on its own, but if you know John Wayne's work or career you really see the film as the perfect career-capper. Unfortunately for Chevy this film was his career-capper as a leading man in big studio pictures, so it does have special meaning in the grand context.
How do you think this movie fits into the broader context of its genre or the filmmaker's body of work? Consider how the film compares to other works in its genre or how it contributes to the filmmaker's overall portfolio.
John Carpenter does an Invisible Man film! Though only hired as a director on this one, the John Carpenter flavor is all over this film. And he does a great job. He executes the comedy really well, and it all feels really natural. He's directing a suspense-action-sci-fi film but blends the comedy bits in organically so nothing feels out of place. This is a funny guy who runs into a serious problem in a serious film. And the FX are fun and extremely well done.
Is there anything else about this movie you'd like to share or any final thoughts you have? Provide any additional comments or insights you have about the film that weren't covered in the discussion.
Daryl Hannah and Sam Neill give great performances. Chevy is surrounded by excellent acting so it levels everything up. Great score, already mentioned. Sir George Martin's son plays the obnoxious yet classy womanizer going after Daryl at the beach house and he looks and sounds exactly like his dad. So now for you Beatles-completists, you have to see it.
Whatever your reasoning, just see it.
"I want my molecules back!"