Presence (2025) Movie Review: A Haunting Perspective on Family and Grief
Director: Steven Soderbergh Writer: David Koepp Cast: Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, Callina Liang, Eddy Maday, Julia Fox Genre: Supernatural Drama / Horror Runtime: 85 minutes
Overview
Steven Soderbergh’s latest film, Presence, offers a unique take on the ghost story genre by presenting the narrative entirely from the perspective of the spirit itself. This unconventional approach creates an eerie, omnipresent viewpoint that immerses the audience in the haunting atmosphere of the film. However, while the concept is intriguing, the execution has received mixed reviews.
Plot Summary
The story follows a family—Rebecca (Lucy Liu), Chris (Chris Sullivan), and their teenage children, Tyler (Eddy Maday) and Chloe (Callina Liang)—as they move into a seemingly idyllic home. However, tensions within the family begin to surface, particularly between Rebecca and Chloe, who is struggling with grief after losing her best friend. Chloe is the only one who senses the presence of a ghost in the house, which silently observes the family’s interactions and absorbs their emotional turmoil.
As the film progresses, the ghost’s presence becomes more apparent, leading to unsettling disturbances. The family eventually seeks the help of a psychic, hoping to understand the supernatural force within their home. The film explores themes of grief, neglect, and unresolved trauma, using the ghost as a metaphor for buried emotions.
Strengths
- Innovative Cinematography: The film is shot entirely from the ghost’s perspective, creating a claustrophobic and immersive experience. The camera never leaves the house, reinforcing the feeling of entrapment.
- Subtle Storytelling: Instead of relying on traditional horror tropes, Presence focuses on emotional depth and psychological tension. The performances, particularly from Callina Liang, add authenticity to the film’s themes.
- Atmospheric Direction: Soderbergh’s minimalist approach enhances the eerie tone, making the audience feel like silent observers of the family’s unraveling dynamics.
Weaknesses
- Lack of Traditional Horror Elements: While the film is marketed as a supernatural horror, it lacks genuine scares. The ghost does not appear on screen or make sounds, leaving much to the audience’s imagination.
- Slow Pacing: The film’s restrained storytelling may feel too subdued for viewers expecting a more intense horror experience. Some critics argue that the climax does not fully resolve the ghost’s contradictory behavior.
- Predictable Twists: The film hints at deeper revelations, but some plot points are easy to anticipate, reducing the impact of the final act.
Final Verdict
Presence is an ambitious and thought-provoking film that challenges conventional horror storytelling. While it may not satisfy those looking for jump scares and intense supernatural encounters, it offers a unique exploration of grief and family dynamics through an unconventional lens. If you appreciate slow-burning psychological dramas with an eerie atmosphere, Presence is worth watching.