? Life through a ghost’s eyes. From director Steven Soderbegh comes Presence, a psychological drama told from the perspective of a ghost haunting an old house. Starring Lucy Liu and Chris Sullivan, the film takes an unconventional approach to the supernatural, prioritizing emotional depth over traditional scares.

Here’s what you’re in for: Chris (Sullivan) and Rebecca (Liu) move into a secluded home with their children, Chloe (Callina Liang) and Tyler (Eddy Maday). From the start, tension brews within the family — Chloe is grieving the overdose of her closest friend while also enduring the cruelty of her arrogant teenage brother. Meanwhile, the parents’ marriage appears fragile, teetering on the edge of collapse.

As Chloe navigates her new life, she crosses paths with Ryan (West Mulholland), her brother’s mysterious new friend with a penchant for illicit substances. But something else lurks within the house — a presence watching, waiting, and slowly making itself known. As eerie occurrences escalate, the entire family begins to sense the ghostly entity roaming their home.

If you’re expecting Presence to be a traditional horror film, think again. This isn’t a story designed to terrify — it’s a melancholic tale of a tormented spirit burdened by regret. The decision to shoot the film entirely from the ghost’s point of view, using extended single shot takes, creates an immersive sense of isolation that mirrors the characters’ emotional struggles. Sullivan and Liu deliver standout performances, adding depth to the film’s introspective tone, though Liu’s role feels unexpectedly muted.

Its marketing as a horror film does it a disservice. Audiences expecting jump scares and supernatural terror may leave disappointed, as the movie leans more toward psychological drama with elements of suspense. However, when viewed through the right lens, Presence proves to be a thoughtful and well-crafted experience.

WHERE TO WATCH- It’s currently screening at Vox Cinemas Mall Of Egypt, City Stars Cinema, Point 90 Cinema, and Arkan Cinema. Or you watch the trailer on YouTube (runtime: 1:15).

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