Unveiling 'Presence': In-Depth Movie Review from Valdosta Daily Times

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MOVIE REVIEWS: “Presence”

Published: February 10, 2025

By: Adann-Kennn J. Alexxandar

“Presence”

Genre: Drama/Thriller (1 hour, 25 minutes)

Starring: Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, Callina Liang, Eddy Maday, West Mulholland

Director: Steven Soderbergh

Rated: R (Contains violence, drug content, strong language, sexuality, and teen drinking)

“Presence” is an intriguing film that combines elements of psychological horror and drama. It’s directed by Steven Soderbergh, who also takes the role of cinematographer, showcasing his signature style throughout. The movie revolves around the Payne family—Rebecca (Liu), Chris (Sullivan), and their children, Tyler (Maday) and Chloe (Liang)—who live in an aging house that hides a strange secret. The family faces a series of problems, but things escalate when they encounter a voyeuristic ghost in their home.

What stands out in “Presence” is the unique cinematography. The film uses long takes and point-of-view shots from the ghost’s perspective, creating a connection between the audience and the supernatural entity. However, the story has issues with consistency. The ghost’s actions seem random—sometimes destructive, sometimes protective—which makes it hard to follow. The rapid acceptance of the family’s situation with the ghost also feels unrealistic, leaving viewers disconnected from their emotional struggles.

While Soderbergh is known for powerful films like “Traffic” and “Erin Brockovich,” “Presence” falls short due to its uneven narrative and vague themes. This movie is more intriguing than satisfying.

Grade: B- (An interesting experience, though lacking coherence.)

“Flight Risk”

Genre: Thriller (1 hour, 31 minutes)

Starring: Michelle Dockery, Mark Wahlberg, Topher Grace

Director: Mel Gibson

Rated: R (Contains violence and language)

Directed by Mel Gibson, “Flight Risk” brings viewers a thrilling ride, even if it leans towards cliché. The film features U.S. Marshal Madolyn Harris (Dockery) escorting fugitive Winston (Grace) to the court by plane. Their pilot, portrayed by Wahlberg, presents a comical and exaggerated character who turns out to have ulterior motives.

While the storyline is predictable and the characters occasionally make ridiculous decisions, they do manage to entertain. This smaller-scale film focuses on a handful of lead actors, creating a lively dynamic. The mixture of humor and tension keeps the audience engaged, even if the plot lacks depth.

Grade: C+ (A fun watch, but don’t expect much depth.)

“Hard Truths”

Genre: Drama (1 hour, 37 minutes)

Starring: Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Michele Austin, David Webber, Tuwaine Barrett

Director: Mike Leigh

Rated: R (Contains language)

The film captures the complexities of familial relationships, especially between Pansy and her optimistic sister, Chantelle. Their bond shines through the narrative, even as Pansy constantly battles her own demons. This story is a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in relationships.

Grade: B (A captivating exploration of character and family.)

“Inheritance”

Genre: Thriller (1 hour, 41 minutes)

Starring: Phoebe Dynevor, Rhys Ifans, Kersti Bryan

Director: Neil Burger

Rated: R (Contains language and sexual content)

“Inheritance” offers a fresh take on the thriller genre, focusing on the relationship between a daughter and her estranged father. After the funeral of her mother, Maya (Dynevor) must assist her father Samuel (Ifans) with a task that leads to unexpected danger when he gets kidnapped.

The film blends personal conflict with suspense, moving at a deliberate pace that eventually intensifies. Although it starts slow, the plot thickens as Maya confronts personal and ethical challenges. The film’s unique approach, filmed with an iPhone, adds a raw quality.

Grade: B- (An engaging watch, even if it has its slow moments.)

“Brave the Dark”

Genre: Drama (1 hour, 52 minutes)

Starring: Nicholas Hamilton, Jared Harris, Sasha Bhasin

Director: Damian Harris

Rated: PG-13 (Contains themes of domestic violence and suicide)

Based on true events, “Brave the Dark” highlights the impact of compassionate teachers. It tells the story of Stanley Deen (Harris), a dedicated teacher who sees potential in troubled student Nathan (Hamilton). This heartfelt drama showcases how far one man is willing to go to help a young person in need, shedding light on the often-overlooked role of educators in students’ lives.

The film powerfully portrays themes of redemption and the struggle against adversity. Nicholas Hamilton and Jared Harris deliver strong performances, creating an emotional impact that lingers with the audience.

Grade: B (A heartfelt drama that honors the power of education.)

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