Presence Review
Starring: Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, Callina Liang, Eddy Maday
Written by: David Koepp
Directed by: Steven Soderbergh
By CineRecap
In the realm of horror films, Presence dares to tread uncharted territories, led by the visionary director Steven Soderbergh. This film, featuring a talented cast including Lucy Liu and Chris Sullivan, dives into the unsettling world of family dynamics and supernatural hauntings. But does it successfully blend these elements into a captivating story? Let’s explore.
The Story So Far
Presence revolves around a mixed-race family—Rebecca (Lucy Liu) and Chris (Chris Sullivan)—who move into a seemingly perfect home in a desirable school district, despite the house being financially out of their reach. They bring along their teenage children, Carl (Lucas Papaelias) and Chloe (Callina Liang). Unbeknownst to them, this house harbors a ghostly presence that wears “martial arts shoes.” As tension mounts within the family regarding their financial strain and the pressures of teenage life, the supernatural elements begin to blur the lines of reality.
A Closer Look at Presence
Storyline and Themes
At its core, Presence attempts to weave a tale of familial stress against a backdrop of supernatural intrigue. However, the execution leaves much to be desired. The storyline, while promising, struggles to maintain coherence. The film is laden with tropes of haunted houses and familial strife but fails to elevate these themes into something fresh or compelling. The idea of a haunted home as a reflection of internal family struggles is intriguing, yet it falters under the weight of its own clichés.
Performances That Shine and Falter
In terms of performance, Lucy Liu brings her characteristic intensity to the role of Rebecca. However, her character often falls into the stereotype of the overbearing mother, lacking depth. Chris Sullivan’s portrayal of Chris as the passive-aggressive father adds a layer of conflict, but again, the characters feel underdeveloped. The teenage roles played by Lucas Papaelias and Callina Liang also suffer from thin writing, leading to a disconnect with the audience.
Direction and Cinematic Techniques
Soderbergh’s direction is a mixed bag in Presence. He employs a first-person point of view that aims to immerse the viewer in the experience. While this technique can create an engaging narrative style, here it often feels like a gimmick rather than a narrative necessity. The film’s attempt at innovation falls short as it leans heavily on established horror conventions without providing a fresh perspective.
Visuals and Cinematography
The cinematography, credited to Soderbergh’s alter ego, Peter Andrews, is undoubtedly one of the film’s stronger aspects. The visuals do create an eerie atmosphere, yet the creativity feels limited to technical prowess rather than storytelling ambition. The floating through walls and ceilings, while visually intriguing, lacks a narrative purpose, making it feel more like a technical exercise than a meaningful plot device.
Conclusion
In summary, while Presence has a compelling premise and notable talent behind it, the film ultimately misses the mark. Its attempt to redefine horror through innovative techniques falters in execution, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment. The film serves as a reminder that not all experimental endeavors yield fruitful results, especially when the foundation of storytelling is not firmly established. As audiences seek fresh narratives in horror, Presence struggles to rise above the noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main theme of Presence?
The main theme revolves around family dynamics, financial stress, and the supernatural, exploring how these elements intertwine.
2. Who directed Presence?
Presence was directed by Steven Soderbergh.
3. Who stars in Presence?
The film stars Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, Callina Liang, and Eddy Maday.
4. Is Presence a horror film?
Yes, Presence is categorized as a horror film that intertwines supernatural elements with family drama.
5. What are the visual styles used in Presence?
The film employs a first-person point of view and features notable cinematography that creates an eerie atmosphere.
6. How did critics receive Presence?
Critics have largely panned the film, citing issues with its execution and character development.
7. What are the main character dynamics in Presence?
The film explores the strained relationships within the family, focusing on the mother-son and husband-wife dynamics.
8. Is Presence based on a book or original screenplay?
Presence is an original screenplay written by David Koepp.
9. Where can I watch Presence?
Presence is available for streaming on platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.
10. What is the overall message of Presence?
The film attempts to convey the complexities of family life and the hidden tensions that can arise when faced with external pressures.
Tags: Presence, Steven Soderbergh, Lucy Liu, Horror Films, Family Dynamics, Movie Review