
Steven Soderbergh's "Presence" attempts to present a fresh take on the haunted house genre by showcasing the events solely from the point of view of a ghost, played through the lens of a handheld camera. While this unique concept initially intrigues, ultimately the film falls short due to its adherence to conventional storytelling and uninspired plot twists. The narrative follows a suburban family moving into their new home, where underlying tensions and secrets begin to unravel with the help of an unseen presence. As eerie occurrences escalate, it becomes clear that "Presence" struggles to rise above clichés often seen in supernatural films, failing to fully capitalize on its innovative premise.The film benefits from Soderbergh's skillful direction and disciplined approach in capturing intimate moments within the confines of a single location. However, it falters with overt attempts at manufactured scares and familiar tropes that undermine its potential for deeper exploration of familial dynamics and personal struggles. Despite commendable performances from the cast, including Lucy Liu and Chris Sullivan as the parents grappling with their own demons while trying to navigate their children's troubled paths, "Presence" ultimately feels like a missed opportunity.While comparisons may be drawn to other films like Oz Perkins’s "I Am The Pretty Thing That Lives in The House" or Alejandro Amenábar’s "The Others," Soderbergh's latest effort lacks the emotional depth and originality necessary to make it truly standout in this crowded genre landscape. Although there are moments of tension and intrigue scattered throughout, they are overshadowed by formulaic plot developments that diminish the impact of its central conceit.In conclusion, Steven Soderbergh's "Presence" offers an intriguing premise marred by predictable storytelling choices and an inability to fully realize its potential as a thought-provoking ghost story. While it showcases moments of artistic flair and directorial finesse typical for Soderbergh's work, overall it falls short in delivering a truly memorable cinematic experience. Perhaps best suited as casual viewing for those seeking light thrills without delving too deep into uncharted territory within supernatural storytelling realms.