The Invisible Man: Aerial Cinematography by Thomas C. Miller
The Invisible Man (2020) is a suspenseful psychological thriller that reimagines H.G. Wells’ classic tale, produced by Blumhouse Productions. The film stars Elisabeth Moss as Cecilia, a woman escaping an abusive relationship, only to be relentlessly haunted by an invisible force. While principal photography took place in Australia, the film's gripping aerial sequences were shot in and around the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of San Francisco. These breathtaking visuals were expertly captured by Emmy-winning aerial cinematographer Thomas C. Miller, whose cinematography elevates the tension and atmosphere of the film.
Miller's contributions to The Invisible Man were vital in establishing the film’s eerie tone and unsettling ambiance. He filmed iconic San Francisco locations, creating sweeping aerial shots that add a chilling sense of isolation and suspense. Miller’s expertise played a pivotal role in key sequences, such as late-night drives through Oakland, an early morning crossing of the Golden Gate Bridge, and tense moments on the winding coastal roads of Highway 1. These dynamic aerials amplify the film’s narrative, grounding the story in a very real and unnerving environment, while subtly building the tension that permeates throughout the film.
For these sequences, Miller used the state-of-the-art Cineflex Pro 516 gimbal paired with a Red Helium S35 camera, and the Angenieux 25-250 Optimo DP lens, creating smooth, cinematic visuals that perfectly integrated with the film’s dark and atmospheric style. His precise control over the aerial shots helped convey a sense of unease, as the smooth, flowing camera work contrasts with the increasing sense of danger and paranoia in the storyline. Miller's ability to capture intricate movements with precision helped set the stage for the film’s key driving sequences, reinforcing the feeling of an invisible presence always lurking just out of sight.
With his expert aerial cinematography, Thomas C. Miller helped bring The Invisible Man to life, adding a crucial visual element that enhances the film's psychological intensity. Through his work, viewers are drawn deeper into the suspenseful world of The Invisible Man, where every shadow could hide an unseen threat.