Presence (2025) Dir. Steven Soderbergh

A family move into a new home for a fresh start after the tragic death of the daughter's best friend, but as soon as they arrive, they feel a strange presence around the house. Watching and waiting.

Presence is the latest film from the experimental mind of Steven Soderbergh. Following in the footsteps from some of his other experimental films like The limey and Schizopolis, this movie provided an interesting and unique visual style that is unlike anything I have seen on the screen. The film is mostly filled with oners and harsh jump cuts, akin to the vibe and feel of Paranormal activity. But the big twist is that the camera is from the perspective of the ghost. The camera moves around smoothly and really gives a strong ethereal vibe. But whilst this film is being advertised as a horror, I really would not call it that. To me there is nothing scary or terrifying about this movie, instead I would call it a paranormal family drama.

The visual style will undoubtedly divide the audience, with how experimental and distinct it is. It definitely took some time for me to acclimatise to the style, and at the start I was hesitant. But as the movie went on, I couldn’t help but get incredibly immersed. Every scene important, every conversation driving the story. All the characters of the family get their own moment to shine and have their own personalities.

This movie wouldn’t be what it is without the cast. Lucy Liu’s character plays one of the most unlikable characters put to film. The clear favouritism, the backhanded comments, and the way she treats everyone is so cold-hearted. But newcomer Callina Liang is the beating heart of this movie, the movie mostly follows her as the protagonist, and you can tell throughout that she is a deeply hurt and lonely individual, trying to navigate a world without her best friend. For a movie with such long takes she really holds her own and manages to act with some acting heavyweights easily. She drives home the overall narratives of the key themes and really makes you feel for the character.

There is a lot packed into the runtime. Presence is only 1 hour and 25 minutes long, but the whole story fits neatly into it, with no plot elements really dragging or feeling rushed. This film really excels at creating an immersive atmosphere that will keep you wanting to watch more and find out what's happening.  The twists are expertly put together, and really made my jaw drop towards the end.

I believe this movie is well worth the watch; it’s certainly one of the most original and unique films you'll see all year. Which proves that movies in our days aren't just releasing adaptations, spin offs, and sequels. The independent industry is still releasing really cool and really interesting original films. This film has so much to say about death and family that really resonates with me, as well as being a surprisingly entertaining and gripping film. This film may not be for everyone, but I absolutely loved it.

★★★★

4 / 5

Jacob Holmes

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