Unveiling ‘Presence’ (2025): In-Depth Movie Review and Insights!

Presence, 2025

Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this film stars Lucy Liu, Julia Fox, Chris Sullivan, and others.

SYNOPSIS:

A family moves into a suburban home, only to feel a mysterious presence lurking around them.

In Presence, we see the story unfold through the eyes of a ghost. Soderbergh, known for his unique filming techniques, presents a deeper look at a struggling family of four. Rather than relying on jump scares, this film reveals clues about the ghost’s identity and motives with every scene.

The camera work is inventive, capturing the family’s conversations and tensions while subtly following the ghost. Often, the ghost’s presence is so understated that you can forget it’s even there. The ghost shows its intentions by interacting with objects around the house, usually in a protective way, adding a refreshing twist to classic ghost stories.

The film starts with the family excited about their new home. Lucy Liu and Chris Sullivan play the parents, Rebekah and Chris. Tensions after a traumatic event have driven them to seek a fresh start, but it’s clear they are not all coping well. Rebekah becomes focused on their son, Tyler, while Chris tries to be supportive without fully understanding his daughter, Chloe.

As the family navigates their challenges, sibling rivalry intensifies. Tyler often lashes out at Chloe, whom he considers a burden, especially as she begins to sense the ghostly presence. Meanwhile, Chloe finds solace in unexpected places, including her brother’s friend, Ryan, leading to further complications.

While the film has elements of a thriller, it is the emotional connections that stand out. Soderbergh beautifully explores family dynamics, showing how pain can fracture bonds but also hinting at possibilities for healing. The ghost’s intentions seem tied to the family’s struggles, suggesting a deep-rooted connection.

Newcomer Callina Liang shines as Chloe, portraying a range of emotions from sorrow to confusion. Her character ties the story together, making this film an engaging mix of horror and heartfelt drama.

Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

Robert Kojder is a member of several film critic associations and serves as the Flickering Myth Reviews Editor.