Review of The Presence (2010) by Pete E — 04 Mar 2013

This is a slower-paced supernatural film that some people won't relate to. I found it to be a well-done introspective study on what it may be like to be both part of the living and the dead. There are some very interesting approaches to the ghostly presence in the cabin.

Later, when another, more sinister presence is introduced and influences not only the living but the dead, a deeper layer of this concept is revealed. I found the story compelling, the performances fine and the cinematographer excellent.

It's also a fine example of a contained thriller with a limited budget. My main criticism is the introspective approach which works in the beginning derails the building tension toward the end. If it had more of a nail-biting pace in the third act, it could have worked so much better.

Still, for those who want a unique take on life and death and how the unknown may influence our everyday thoughts and deeds, without the slasher mentality, this film could be a rewarding experience. Hopefully, the ratings for this will improve once more people view it who appreciate films in the vein of The Woman in Black, The Others, etc.