More family drama than horror, Presence's supernatural elements serve as psychological metaphors. Forming productive arcs, each protagonist has clear flaws, motivations, relationships, and conflicts. Because the story is confined plus character-driven, its emotions are central. This all serves themes like loneliness, neglect, existentialism, trauma, and coercion. There's also a meta aspect of voyeurism. Careful foreshadowing makes the twists all the more satisfying. The dialogue earns its exposition. Lastly, the acting anchors everything with its chemistry, vulnerability, intensity, and layers. Some might find its plot slightly undercooked, but Presence's intimacy is its priority.
Sticking to a strict perspective, Presence is ambitious yet intuitive. All POVs, the cinematography transcends into a fundamental character. Building gradual suspense within a tight runtime, its editing cuts to black between long takes. The sound reinforces perspective with ambient volume shifts and a ringing motif. Only coming in for classical scoring transitions, its music fits the film's tone. The chamber piece production design delivers an essential sense of place. Buoyed by decent diversity, its cast's middling fame supports the immersion. Although not too abundant, the effects add digital work, stunts, and practicals. Ultimately, Presence is a successful experiment.
Writing: 7/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 10/10
Acting: 8/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 9/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.2/10
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