Director Mike Hermosa delivers a creature feature that would make Roger Corman proud with his latest film, "The Invisible Raptor." Hermosa also wrote the screenplay, which poses the question: what happens when a top-secret experiment goes wrong and a hyper-intelligent, invisible raptor escapes the lab, wreaking havoc in the surrounding neighborhood?
As the creature's identity is revealed, it becomes evident that the town's only hope for surviving the raptor's rampage lies in the hands of disgraced paleontologist Dr. Grant Walker (played by Mike Capes), his ex-girlfriend Amber (Caitlin McHugh), Denny (David Shackelford), an unstable amusement park security guard, and Henrietta (Sandy Martin), a local celebrity chicken farmer.
The assumption can be made that individuals selecting "The Invisible Raptor" are aware of what the film entails. This feature distinguishes itself through its absurdity, particularly in exploring the concept of an invisible raptor. One can envision the disconcerting experience of an individual leisurely sipping coffee on their porch, only to be confronted by an unexpected gust of wind, a toppled lawn chair, and a panicked squawking chicken; this scenario encapsulates a modern-day nightmare. The raptor's antics result in numerous comedic moments that satirize the conventions of monster films and the broader genre tropes. The cast demonstrates a commendable commitment to the film's outrageous scenarios, suggesting that all involved genuinely enjoy the process.
However, "The Invisible Raptor" is not without its shortcomings. At times, the pacing falters, reminiscent of a raptor attempting to navigate the use of a selfie stick. Certain narrative elements lean precariously close to clichés, and the instances of convenient coincidences warrant mention. Nevertheless, those willing to set aside their disbelief and engage with the chaos will likely laugh more often than feel exasperated.
From a visual standpoint, the film successfully merges special effects with traditional practical effects, appealing to enthusiasts of the creature feature genre. Although the raptor may be invisible, the absurdity in the characters' interactions with this unseen menace provides a visually rewarding experience that sustains engagement, even when the CGI experiences occasional shortcomings.
Ultimately, "The Invisible Raptor" is a poignant reminder that the most significant threats may not stem from those lurking in the shadows but rather from the decisions that led to their emergence. While it may not revolutionize the film industry as its creators had envisioned, it presents an enjoyable experience that deftly balances horror and comedy elements.
Therefore, audiences are encouraged to prepare themselves for an entertaining exploration alongside a disgraced paleontologist and his diverse crew in their endeavor to confront a dinosaur rampage within their community.
Final Grade: B+
"The Invisible Raptor" roars into Theaters & On Digital
December 6