Steven Soderbergh’s 'Presence' Divides Critics With Experimental Ghost Story

The film’s unique POV concept and family drama focus draw attention but fail to deliver consistent scares or narrative depth.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh, 'Presence' explores a ghost story told entirely through the perspective of a silent, unseen spirit using experimental cinematography.
The film follows a fractured family of four, led by Lucy Liu and Chris Sullivan, as they move into a century-old suburban home while grappling with personal and interpersonal struggles.
Critics note that the movie prioritizes its stylistic gimmick over delivering suspense or emotional resonance, with its supernatural elements failing to evoke fear or intrigue.
While marketed as a horror film, 'Presence' leans more heavily into family drama, examining themes of grief, estrangement, and unspoken tensions within the household.
Reactions to the film are mixed, with praise for its ambition and concept but criticism for its underdeveloped narrative and lack of impactful scares.