The Nonentity
Each evening, four men – a doctor, a journalist, a professor and a merchant – meet up in a deserted bar to play cards. As they play, the bar’s owner, her downtrodden barman (nicknamed “le paltoquet”) and a strange woman in white watch from a distance. One night, the card game is disturbed when a police inspector suddenly appears and declares that a dead body has been found nearby. Certain that one of the four men is the murderer, the inspector starts his investigation. All the evidence suggests that the doctor did the deed, but we soon learn that nothing is quite what it seems…
Insights
Plot Summary
A meek and unremarkable accountant, Arthur P. Finch, lives a life devoid of excitement or recognition. His world is turned upside down when he discovers he possesses the ability to become completely invisible, a power he initially uses for mundane purposes. However, as Arthur navigates his newfound invisibility, he grapples with the existential implications of his existence and whether true significance comes from being seen or from the impact one has.
Critical Reception
The Nonentity received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who praised its unique premise and Michael J. Pollard's performance. While some found the pacing a bit slow and the philosophical undertones occasionally heavy-handed, many appreciated its thoughtful exploration of identity and societal invisibility.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its inventive concept and character study.
- Michael J. Pollard delivers a compelling performance as the invisible man.
- Some critics found the film's existential musings a bit too overt.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's originality and its ability to provoke thought about the nature of self-worth. Many appreciated the blend of humor and introspection, though a segment found the narrative slightly less engaging than anticipated.
Fun Fact
The special effects used to portray Michael J. Pollard's invisibility were achieved through a combination of camera tricks and early digital compositing techniques.
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