Intelligent and Empathetic Horror: A Deep Dive into ‘Presence’ and ‘Wolf Man’ – Movie Reviews on Port Townsend Leader

By Kirk Boxleitner

The year 2025 kicks off with some eerie films that feel more suited for Halloween. The first two releases dive straight into horror, each bringing unique perspectives on familiar themes.

Steven Soderbergh steps into haunted territory with “Presence,” his first haunted house film. This intriguing story flips the usual haunted house narrative on its head, showing the events from the spirit’s viewpoint. The reasons behind the haunting unfold slowly, drawing viewers into its mystery.

In contrast, Leigh Whannell’s “Wolf Man” sticks closely to modern American life, diverging from the classic Eastern European vibe of earlier werewolf tales. Still, it captures the tragic essence of the original character, depicting a man struggling with his beastly curse and sensitive nature.

Both films dig into the complexities of family dynamics, presenting families that love each other but are scarred by their past. Their relationships offer tension throughout the stories, showcasing how they strive to heal their wounds.

Soderbergh’s “Presence” is a tight 85 minutes, while Whannell’s “Wolf Man” runs longer at 103 minutes. Despite the shorter runtime, Soderbergh cleverly weaves in a subplot about the parents’ struggles, enhancing the narrative’s depth and leaving viewers intrigued.

On the other hand, Whannell reveals his story’s secrets more obviously. Yet, he still keeps audiences engaged, especially with the metaphorical connection between the werewolf transformation and the challenges of passing down toxic masculinity from father to son.