Griff the Invisible

Griff the Invisible is a 2010 Australian film directed and written by Leon Ford. The movie is a charming and somewhat quirky blend of romance, comedy, and superhero fantasy genres. The subtle storytelling and genuine performances give this film an unusual and compelling depth that is both uniquely Australian and universally relatable.

Ryan Kwanten, best known for his role in HBO's True Blood, stars as the titular character, Griff. By day, Griff is an introverted and mild-mannered office worker continuously typically the target of bullies. By night, however, Griff transforms into a superhero, valiantly patrolling the streets of his neighbourhood wearing a makeshift black latex suit. Griff represents an intriguing character study, a man living more in his fantasy world than in reality, utilizing his imaginary superhero side to deal with the challenges of his everyday life.

A significant part of Griff's life changes when he meets Melody, a bright and free-spirited young woman played by Maeve Dermody. Melody's character is delightful; she’s sincere, naive, and somewhat eccentric. Having studied the theory of moving through solid matter, Melody becomes attracted to Griff's exceptional personality and his enigmatic world. This encounter of two unique personas sets the stage for a whimsical romance storyline, exploring the themes of love, acceptance, and the power of imagination.

Aside from Griff and Melody, the movie also introduces Tim, Griff's protective older brother. Played by Patrick Brammall, Tim is concerned about Griff's mental health and holds a realistic perception of the world. Conversely, Malka, a psychologist played by Heather Mitchell, serves as Melody's insightful mother. The interactions between these characters offer a compelling balance of perspectives, grounding the narrative with compassion and realism.

The story flourishes under Leon Ford's skilled direction, exploring the blurred line between reality and fantasy, and the power of one’s imagination. The film introduces us to Griff's superhero world in an intriguing manner, with just enough mystery to keep the audience second guessing. It is filled with metaphorical elements that delve into the metaphysics of existence, the freedom of choices, and the courage to be different in a conformist society.

Forming an integral part of the film is the visually striking cinematography by Simon Chapman. Notable for his work in other Australian productions, Chapman's use of hazy light and rich, saturated colours create a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere for Griff’s nightly escapades, enhancing the fantastical aspects of the storyline. This contrasted beautifully with the harsh, bland palette of Griff's daytime office environment, underlining the dichotomy between his monotonous daytime routine and the thrilling escapades of his night-time superhero alter ego.

The screenplay is thoughtful, with well-penned dialogues that touch on the fragility and strength of the human spirit. The film's unique blend of optimism and realism brings depth to the characterisation, allowing the audience to connect with the characters and root for their journey. The unassuming humour lightly sprinkled throughout the script ensures that the film retains its light-hearted charm, even amidst its foray into deeper thematic territory.

Griff the Invisible is not a typical superhero movie with flashy special effects or larger-than-life villains. Instead, it is a powerful character-driven narrative that explores the human psyche, loneliness, self-acceptance, mental health, companionship, and obsessions. The film is an appealing blend of the everyday and the extraordinary, a touching exploration of two lost souls finding solace in each other's worlds. This heartwarming movie, underscored with a heroic theme, highlights that we can all be heroes in our own ways.

In summary, Griff the Invisible is a sometimes funny, sometimes sweet, and always profoundly human tale of love and imagination. Its strength lies in its subtlety and its ability to weave a captivating story without straying into cliched territory. The film invites you into its surreal world, engaging you with its unique take on the tired old trope of a neighbourhood superhero and leaves you with a sense of bemused delight.