Pop Culture Happy Hour Presence
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Jan 28, 2025 Walter Chow, a writer and critic, dives deep into Steven Soderbergh's film Presence, a haunting tale told from the ghost's perspective. The conversation highlights the fragile dynamics of a family grappling with loss, set against a backdrop of innovative cinematography that heightens the film's eerie atmosphere. They tackle the portrayal of Asian characters, critiquing stereotypes while exploring the potential for richer narratives. The hosts also discuss the benefits of shorter runtimes and the challenges of blending genres, pushing for fresh storytelling in modern cinema.
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Presence: A Vibe-Driven Film
- Linda Holmes enjoyed the film "Presence" for its vibes and filmmaking style, rather than the script itself.
- She appreciated the POV perspective, the use of lenses, scoring, and the overall unsettling atmosphere.
Presence: A Great Experiment, Dull Script
- Walter Chow initially liked the film as an experiment in filmmaking but found the script dull.
- He compared it to "The Nickel Boys" and discussed the use of POV in storytelling.
A Shift in Genre
- Glenn Weldon felt the film initially presented as a character study but shifted into a more pulpy genre film.
- This shift left him feeling unsatisfied, as the initial promise of an esoteric, arthouse-style film wasn't fulfilled.