Premiere - Presence New York Premiere: A Night of Haunting Elegance and Cinematic Innovation

By Mulder, New York city, AMC Lincoln Square, 16 january 2025

On a chilly winter evening in Manhattan, the stars aligned for the New York premiere of Presence, the latest supernatural thriller directed by the legendary Steven Soderbergh. The premiere transformed AMC Lincoln Square into a glitzy celebration of cinematic artistry, style, and suspense, as the cast and crew, alongside industry luminaries, gathered to unveil what promises to be a defining work in modern horror. The red carpet at the Presence premiere was a study in fashion-forward elegance, with the attendees' outfits reflecting the film’s eerie yet stylish themes. Leading lady Lucy Liu stole the spotlight in a jaw-dropping black tulle gown by Zuhair Murad, chosen from the designer’s Fall 2024 ready-to-wear collection. Featuring a dramatic ruffled neckline and sheer lace details, the dress evoked an aura of gothic romanticism that perfectly captured the film’s haunting tone.

Julia Fox, known for her daring fashion choices, opted for a bold, gender-fluid look in a menswear-inspired suit that turned heads with its sharp tailoring and understated edge. Callina Liang, another of the film’s stars, channeled old Hollywood glamour in a sleek white bodycon dress that accentuated her silhouette and brought a touch of classic sophistication to the event. The red carpet wasn’t just a platform for fashion; it was also a showcase of talent. Joining Liu, Fox, and Liang were fellow cast members Chris Sullivan, Eddy Maday, and West Mullholland, alongside the film’s writer David Koepp. The event also drew a stellar lineup of additional guests, including directors Barry Jenkins, Lulu Wang, and Ari Aster, as well as actors André Holland, Kelsey Asbille, and John Wilson. Their presence underscored the high regard Presence holds within the film community.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh and written by David Koepp, Presence weaves a chilling narrative about a family who moves into a suburban home, only to discover they are not alone. The film dives deep into themes of isolation, fear, and the unknown, amplified by its groundbreaking use of first-person perspective. This innovative approach draws viewers directly into the story, creating an intensely immersive experience. The production of Presence was shrouded in mystery until December 2023, when it was announced as part of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival lineup. Filmed in Cranford, New Jersey, the movie was shot under an interim SAG-AFTRA agreement during the historic 2023 strike, showcasing the team’s dedication to their craft even under challenging circumstances.

After its debut at Sundance on January 19, 2024, Presence quickly became one of the festival’s standout features, garnering critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and innovative cinematography. The film’s unique perspective and tightly woven narrative intrigued distributors, leading to a bidding war eventually won by Neon, which acquired the rights for $5 million. The film’s New York premiere marks the final milestone before its nationwide release on January 24, 2025. With a runtime of just 85 minutes, Presence promises a compact yet emotionally charged viewing experience. The film’s score, composed by Zack Ryan, further enhances the suspenseful atmosphere, while Soderbergh’s triple role as director, cinematographer, and editor ensures a cohesive and polished final product.

A Night of Celebration and Anticipation The premiere wasn’t just about the film; it was also a celebration of the creative minds behind it. Steven Soderbergh, known for his boundary-pushing approach to filmmaking, expressed gratitude to the cast and crew for their commitment to the project. Lucy Liu, whose performance is already generating awards buzz, spoke about the challenges and rewards of working on a film shot entirely in the first-person perspective, calling it “one of the most unique projects” of her career. The evening also provided an opportunity for guests to reflect on the broader state of the horror genre. Barry Jenkins and Ari Aster, both prominent filmmakers in their own right, praised Presence for its willingness to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. The gathering served as a testament to the enduring appeal of horror as a genre capable of both entertainment and profound artistic expression.

As Presence prepares for its theatrical release, the excitement surrounding the film continues to build. Neon’s strategic promotional campaign, including a chilling teaser trailer that has already racked up millions of views online, ensures that audiences across the country are eagerly awaiting its arrival. International audiences won’t have to wait long either, with the film set to release in France on February 5, 2025. With its blend of innovative filmmaking, compelling performances, and atmospheric tension, Presence is poised to be a landmark entry in the horror genre. The New York premiere served as a fitting launchpad for a film that promises to captivate and terrify audiences in equal measure.

The Presence premiere was more than just a cinematic event; it was a moment of artistic triumph. From the stunning red carpet fashion to the palpable anticipation for the film’s release, the evening showcased the enduring power of storytelling and the collective effort of a talented team dedicated to their craft. With its official release just days away, Presence is set to haunt theaters and solidify its place as one of the year’s most talked-about films.

Synopsis :
A family moves into a new house, where a mysterious presence haunts the premises.

Presence
Directed by Steven Soderbergh
Written by David Koepp
Produced by Julie M. Anderson, Ken Meyer
Starring Lucy Liu, Julia Fox, Chris Sullivan
Cinematography : Steven Soderbergh
Edited by Steven Soderbergh
Music by Zack Ryan
Production companies : Sugar23, Extension 765
Distributed by Neon (United States),
Release dates : January 19, 2024 (Sundance), January 24, 2025 (United States), February 5, 2025 (France)
Running time : 85 minutes