New Movies: The Invisibles (2024) by Andrew Currie
- dailyentertainment95
- May 9
- 7 min read
The Invisibles (2024) by Andrew Currie: A Metaphor for Loss and Connection
Canadian director Andrew Currie delivers The Invisibles, a unique and thought-provoking science fiction drama that premiered in 2024. The film, co-written by Currie and Colin Aussant, uses a fantastical premise to explore profound themes of grief, loss, and the human desire to be seen and connected, even in the face of literal disappearance.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14872806/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/the-invisibles-2024 (US), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/the-invisibles-2024 (Canada)
Detailed Summary
The Invisibles centers on Charlie (Tim Blake Nelson), a man whose life is unraveling amidst a crumbling marriage to Hanna (Gretchen Mol) and a stalled career. As his emotional detachment and sense of invisibility grow, Charlie begins to literally fade from existence. This physical manifestation of his inner state leads him to discover a hidden, alternate world populated by others who have similarly "disappeared" from the visible realm.
This parallel dimension, where the invisibles gather in places like a decrepit bowling alley led by the affable Carl (Bruce Greenwood), offers a sanctuary from the emotional pain and disappointments of the tangible world. Charlie learns that each invisible person has experienced a devastating loss, betrayal, or disappointment that caused them to give up on life in some way.
The film delves into the core reason behind Charlie's own disappearance: a grievous loss shared with Hanna, which has paralyzed him in a cycle of denial and apathy, while Hanna has been working hard to recover. As Charlie finds himself torn between the comfort and solace of the invisible world and his enduring love for Hanna, the narrative becomes a powerful allegory. It explores how individuals cope with the pain of loss, the allure of emotional numbness, and the arduous but vital process of moving beyond grief to truly live again in the physical world, reconnecting with loved ones and acknowledging the past. The film aims to be a hopeful message about overcoming isolation and trauma.
Plot Summary
Charlie, a man whose marriage is ending, begins to literally disappear. As he fades from existence, he discovers a hidden world of other "invisibles," each of whom has retreated due to devastating loss. Torn between this comforting new reality and his love for his wife, Charlie must confront his grief and decide if he wants to return to a life where he is seen and connected.
Director's Vision
Andrew Currie, an award-winning Toronto-based filmmaker, is known for his distinct storytelling style that merges genres to explore human relationships and the absurdities of life. For The Invisibles, Currie, who co-wrote the screenplay with Colin Aussant, envisioned a fantastical story that "wears its heart on its sleeve." His aim was to create a "powerful meditation on what it means to be seen—or not seen—in a world that feels fractured." He describes the film as a "fantastical story that will hopefully connect with anyone who has ever felt isolated, alone, or traumatized by life," and hopes it sends a message of hope about getting beyond pain. Currie is idealistic about art's ability to express universal truths and inspire hope for the future.
Themes
Grief and Loss: The central theme, exploring the overwhelming impact of devastating loss and how individuals process or avoid their pain.
Invisibility and Isolation: A literal and metaphorical exploration of feeling unseen, unheard, and disconnected in relationships and society.
Coping Mechanisms: The film examines different ways people react to trauma, including retreat, denial, and the struggle towards acceptance and recovery.
Connection and Belonging: The contrast between the comfort of the invisible world's shared retreat and the difficult but vital need for connection in the tangible world.
Redemption and Hope: The possibility of moving beyond paralyzing grief to rediscover purpose, vitality, and the will to live fully.
Marriage and Relationships: The film delves into the complexities of a crumbling marriage and the lingering bonds that can persist even in dissolution.
Key Success Factors
Unique Allegory: The film's use of literal invisibility as a metaphor for emotional detachment and grief is highly original and thought-provoking.
Strong Lead Performances: Tim Blake Nelson's portrayal of Charlie is lauded for its raw vulnerability, and Gretchen Mol's performance as Hanna brings depth to the story. Bruce Greenwood's role as Carl also provides a compelling presence.
Genre Blending: The seamless integration of fantasy and science fiction elements into a poignant drama appeals to a broad audience looking for more than just a typical drama.
Critical Acclaim at Festivals: Its win at Cinequest for Best Feature Drama and selection as the opening gala for Cinéfest Sudbury indicate strong initial reception.
Hopeful Message: Despite its exploration of heavy themes, the film offers a message of hope and the possibility of overcoming trauma.
Cast
Tim Blake Nelson as Charlie
Gretchen Mol as Hanna
Bruce Greenwood as Carl
Nathan Alexis
Edmund Donovan
Albert Jones
Rebecca Creskoff as Emma Hanway
Audrey Grace Marshall as Mallory Hanway
Awards and Nominations
The Invisibles has received early recognition at film festivals:
Winner: Best Feature Drama at the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival (2024)
Opening Gala Film at the 2024 Cinéfest Sudbury International Film Festival
The film has also been nominated for Achievement in Cinematography at the 2025 Canadian Screen Awards for Maya Bankovic.
Critics Reception
Critics have largely praised The Invisibles for its imaginative premise, emotional depth, and strong performances.
IMDb and MUBI reviews: Highlight it as a "must-watch" that "really stuck with me," praising Tim Blake Nelson's "phenomenal" and "heartbreaking" vulnerability and Gretchen Mol's "magnetic" and "deeply emotional" portrayal.
Auburn Lane: Notes that director Andrew Currie "creates this world where the unseen isn't just a metaphor, but a reflection of how people can feel invisible in society and in their own lives. It's a powerful meditation on what it means to be seen—or not seen—in a world that feels fractured." 1
Original CIN: States the film "Imaginative Film Asks, Is It Better to Be Not Seen Than Hurt?" and praises its ability to explore "paralyzing grief, loss, and inability to deal with devastating sorrow."
The Movie Gourmet: Describes it as an "engrossing dramatic parable" and an "ingenious metaphor" for how people react to the pain of loss and the process of moving beyond it.
Overall Summary of Critics Reception: Critics are overwhelmingly positive, recognizing The Invisibles as a thoughtful, provocative, and emotionally impactful film. They praise its unique allegorical structure, the strong performances of its lead cast, and Andrew Currie's sensitive direction in tackling profound themes of grief, isolation, and the human condition.
Reviews
Audience reviews align with critical sentiment, indicating that The Invisibles is a deeply moving and thought-provoking experience. Viewers have been particularly affected by the film's emotional honesty and its unique approach to exploring universal feelings of loss and the desire for connection. The film's blend of genres has also been well-received, creating a memorable and engaging cinematic journey.
Overall Summary of Reviews: Reviews indicate that The Invisibles is a highly impactful and emotionally resonant film that connects deeply with audiences through its unique storytelling and heartfelt exploration of human vulnerability and resilience.
Production
Director: Andrew Currie
Writers: Andrew Currie, Colin Aussant
Producers: Lee Kim, Mary Anne Waterhouse
Executive Producers: Will Machin, Carrie Mudd, Sam Parker, Clay Pecorin, Michael Yates, Christopher J. Danton
Cinematography: Maya Bankovic (Nominee for 2025 Canadian Screen Awards)
Editor: Stephen Roque
Music by: Todor Kobakov
Production Companies: Quadrant Motion Pictures, Resolute Films
Production Country: Canada
Language: English
Running Time: 107 minutes
Filming Locations: Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario, Canada (Principal photography in 2023)
Sales Companies
Metro International (International sales)
Distribution Companies
Levelfilm (Canadian distributor)
Available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV (in some territories)
Release Date on Streaming
The Invisibles is available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV in some regions. Specific global release dates on these platforms may vary.
Theatrical Release
The Invisibles had its World Premiere at the Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival in San Jose, California, on March 10, 2024.
It also served as the Opening Gala Film at the 2024 Cinéfest Sudbury International Film Festival (September 14, 2024).
The film had select theatrical screenings in Canadian cities such as Toronto and Vancouver in September 2024.
Why to Recommend This Movie
Unique Concept: The literal manifestation of invisibility as a metaphor for emotional pain is a fresh and intriguing premise.
Powerful Performances: Tim Blake Nelson, Gretchen Mol, and Bruce Greenwood deliver nuanced and compelling portrayals of characters grappling with deep loss.
Emotional Depth: The film offers a profound exploration of grief, isolation, and the challenging journey towards healing and reconnection.
Intelligent Storytelling: Director Andrew Currie skillfully blends sci-fi and fantasy elements with a grounded human drama, creating a thought-provoking and engaging experience.
Message of Hope: Despite its exploration of heavy themes, the film ultimately delivers a hopeful message about overcoming adversity and finding meaning.
Why to Watch Movie
To See Grief Visualized: Experience a unique and powerful allegory for the often-unseen pain of loss.
For Stellar Acting: Witness standout performances from a talented cast, especially Tim Blake Nelson's emotionally raw portrayal.
For a Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi Drama: If you appreciate films that use genre elements to explore complex human conditions rather than just spectacle.
To Feel Connected: The film aims to resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone or invisible, offering a sense of shared experience and hope.
What Movie Trend Film is Following
The Invisibles fits into the trend of "Elevated Genre Cinema," where science fiction or fantasy concepts are used to explore profound human conditions and psychological themes, often with a focus on character development and emotional depth. It also aligns with the growing appreciation for "Independent Canadian Cinema" that delivers high-quality storytelling with unique perspectives.
What Big Social Trend is Following
The film directly addresses the societal conversation around "Mental Health and Isolation," using its fantastical premise to explore the internal experience of feeling unseen or disconnected in a world that often feels fragmented. It also speaks to the universal experience of "Grief and Trauma Processing," highlighting the various ways individuals cope with loss and the importance of finding pathways to healing and reintegration.
Final Verdict
The Invisibles is a deeply affecting and remarkably inventive film that stands out as a significant entry in 2024 cinema. Andrew Currie crafts a moving allegory for the complexities of grief and the human need for connection, anchored by genuinely powerful performances from Tim Blake Nelson and Gretchen Mol. Its unique blend of sci-fi fantasy with raw emotional drama makes it both thought-provoking and highly resonant. For audiences seeking a film that challenges conventional storytelling while delivering a heartfelt and ultimately hopeful message about overcoming trauma, The Invisibles is a must-watch.
Recommendations for Filmmakers
Embrace Allegory: Consider using metaphorical or fantastical elements to explore complex emotional or societal themes in a fresh and impactful way.
Prioritize Character-Driven Narratives: Even with a high-concept premise, ground the story in authentic human emotions and well-developed characters to ensure relatability and resonance.
Blend Genres Intentionally: Skillfully integrate different genre elements to enhance the thematic depth and audience experience, rather than for mere spectacle.
Recommendations for Movie Industry
Support Independent Voices: Continue to champion independent filmmakers who offer unique visions and explore profound human stories outside of mainstream conventions.
Recognize the Power of Metaphor: Promote films that use creative allegories to discuss challenging social or psychological issues, fostering deeper understanding and engagement.
Invest in Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi: Encourage the production of science fiction that goes beyond special effects to delve into philosophical and emotional territories.
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