The presence of Steven Soderbergh gave a new spin to POV horror, and I didn't realize I needed this version of found footage

Steven Soderbergh is an acclaimed filmmaker who has used his talents in a variety of different genres. His upcoming horror film titled Presence caused walkouts during Sundance and continued to be shown at other film festivals. I was lucky enough to attend an early screening of the film, which put a new spin on POV horror. And I didn’t realize I needed this version of found footage.

Soderbergh is known for taking bold creative risks in his projects, like the film Insane which was shot entirely on an iPhone. He did it again with Presencewhich is shot entirely from the POV of the story’s titular ghost. And that bold choice, along with its unexpected ending, could help make it one of the best horror films in recent memory.

I had the chance to see Presence at the Hamptons International Film Festival and was immediately drawn to its unique visual language. The audience IS the ghost the family feels, hiding in a closet until Lucy Liu’s Rebecca and the Payne family move into their new home. And we watch as the titular presence observes them, before finally becoming involved in what’s happening in the house. As a reminder, you can check out the enigmatic teaser for the film below:

PRESENCE – Official Teaser #3 – In theaters in January – YouTube
PRESENCE - Official Teaser #3 - In theaters in January - YouTube

Look on it

Although told in a unique set of circumstances, the very beginning of Presence this looks like one of the best found footage films. In a style made famous by The Blair Witch Project and the Paranormal activity franchise, the audience could be directly immersed in the story it follows. This happens in Soderbergh’s latest film, although it takes us to the point of view of the ghost that frightens the family.

Just like other movie buffs, the found footage trend eventually grew tired, with the Paranormal activity the films became less scary as they progressed. That’s why being the ghost of Presence it was like a breath of fresh, scary air. And although it is in the point of view of the one who holds the power in the situation, the rhythm and the legendary of Soderbergh Jurassic Park Writer David Koepp’s screenplay allowed the tension to build into a hugely satisfying (and emotional) climax.

I will not spoil the content of PresenceThe duration is 85 minutes but the film contains some truly disturbing scenes. There is one where the protagonist Chloe (Callina Liang) is in danger and presents a situation that is truly going to be a nightmare for me. And it’s one of the film’s many delightfully surprising moments.

But as mentioned, the end of Presence is truly moving. The story is expertly crafted, allowing the audience and characters in the film to truly earn its final moments. And it proved that POV and found footage horror still has the potential to make a big impact.

Presence is scheduled to arrive in theaters on January 17. Check for 2025 movie release dates now.

Hannah nearly quits as absolute chaos ensues at MAFS UK retreat

Kinotipp der Woche: Urschleim du Punk

Related Posts

Fresno news: Fathers seek help after daughters, Eliza and Mang Yang, killed by SUV that crashed into California home

Gastspiel “And here I am” by Freedom Theater abgesagt · Leipziger Zeitung

Bosnia flood death toll reaches 26, with at least one person still missing 10 days after storm – Winnipeg Free Press