Steven Soderbergh’s ‘Presence’ Becomes Streaming Sensation Despite Divisive Reviews

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The least recognized horror movie of this year, which was released on Hulu only a few days ago, has unexpectedly turned into a streaming sensation. As of now, this undervalued horror production is ranked second in Hulu’s top 10 chart of most-watched films. Some of the other titles on the list include the “Grown Ups” movies, “28 Weeks Later,” “We’re the Millers,” and “Just Go With It.

A family settles in a suburban house and gradually believes they aren’t the only ones living there.” Yet, this isn’t merely another haunting tale. Instead, it offers much more than typical ghost story fare.

In Soderbergh’s innovative take on a traditional horror narrative, the film Presence explores the events within a haunted house exclusively through the viewpoint of the lingering spirit residing there. The audience gets a glimpse into the ghost’s observations, and as the plot unfolds, we discover that this apparition is not a casual visitor from the beyond but has a significant connection to the family living in the haunted abode.

As a movie enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of watching “Presence,” a chilling horror flick penned by none other than David Koepp, a seasoned veteran who has previously crafted spine-tingling tales like “You Should Have Left” and “Stir of Echoes.” This time around, he collaborated with the renowned Steven Soderbergh on his first foray into the realm of horror. Interestingly, Soderbergh chose to use pseudonyms Peter Andrews and Mary Ann Bernard to take credit for the film’s captivating cinematography and editing.

The star-studded cast includes Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, Callina Liang, Julia Fox, and Eddy Maday, among others. “Presence” managed to rake in an impressive $10 million at the box office from a modest production budget of $2 million. Critics seemed to appreciate the film, yet its reception was far from unanimous. Rotten Tomatoes scores reflect the film’s polarizing nature – boasting a Certified Fresh label and 87% on the critics’ score but registering a lower rating of 52% in the audience score.

In essence, “Presence” is a film that seems to have left audiences divided, yet it’s certainly worth watching for horror enthusiasts who enjoy a good mystery unfolding on screen.

‘Presence’ Is a Mind-Bending Horror Experience Unlike Anything You’ve Seen Before

Presence differs significantly from other horror films you might have watched before. It offers a unique cinematic journey where viewers find themselves inhabiting the perspective of a solitary spirit with a purpose. The horror unfolds gradually, unveiling the enigmas of the chilling haunting in an intensely suspenseful climax that doesn’t follow the typical resolution pattern.

As a cinephile delving into the realms of terror, let me share my thoughts on the intriguing spectacle that is “Presence.” This film, with its innovative approach to horror, undeniably captures the spotlight and incites spirited debate among viewers. Its unconventional narrative, subtly infused with dramatic elements, sets it apart from the pack.

Steven Soderbergh masterfully weaves horror tropes into the fabric of this film, crafting a chilling experience that defies conventional expectations in the genre. “Presence” is far from your garden-variety scream fest; instead, it’s a film that compels conversation, even if the dialogue centers around criticism.

In a year filled with horror offerings, “Presence” stands out as a discussion piece that will reverberate through the halls of cinema for years to come. Few 2025 horrors have managed to achieve this level of enduring intrigue.

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2025-06-06 20:02