The Hidden is a surprisingly effective mix of thriller, science fiction and horror tropes starring Michael Nouri and Kyle MacLachlan. I generally try to avoid dropping spoilers when talking about films but, in this case, it’s going to be hard giving away more than I would normally like. Then again, the big reveal is so clearly telegraphed that it would be hard for anyone to miss it. So… you have been warned.
That said, it isn’t much of a spoiler to say Giant Space Slug! Because this happens pretty early in the film, shortly after a previously law-abiding citizen goes on a violently criminal rampage. Said citizen is finally halted and it’s while he’s in hospital that the Giant Space Slug makes his appearance.
Meanwhile, Detective Tom Beck (Michael Nouri) is assigned to the case and is rather annoyed to discover FBI Agent, Lloyd Gallagher (Kyle MacLachlan, right after Blue Velvet) has also attached himself to the investigation. Gallagher is cagey about what he knows and somewhat inconsistent with what he tells an increasingly frustrated Beck. This, combined with MacLachlan’s effectively otherworldly performance tells you everything you need to know, and much of the fun of the film comes from watching the escalating carnage while Beck catches up with the audience.
To be fair to Beck, he does have a lot of catching up to do.
The Hidden is a much better film than its premise suggests. There are no surprises along the way, but it is a solidly constructed film that remains internally consistent and is a lot of fun to watch.
And Kyle MacLachlan fights a Giant Space Slug. What more could you want?
Lightly Seared on the Reality Grill 
It’s a cracking film. Seen it a few times.
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It’s a great film. And a lot better than you would expect, given it’s premise.
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