Writer Addresses Presence Ending and Reveals Ghost Twist

This article contains SPOILERS for Presence.

Exploring the Depths of Presence: Insights from Writer David Koepp

David Koepp, the writer behind the supernatural thriller Presence, sheds light on the film’s unexpected conclusion. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, this 2024 release stars Lucy Liu as a mother battling familial turmoil while confronting the haunting presence of a poltergeist. The film also features a talented cast, including Chris Sullivan, Callina Liang, Eddy Maday, West Mulholland, Julia Fox, and Natalie Woodlams-Torr. Since its release, Presence has garnered generally positive reviews.

The Ambiguity of the Specter’s Identity

In a recent interview with The Wrap, Koepp revealed that the identity of the poltergeist—Tyler (played by Maday)—is a twist that some viewers may catch quickly. Koepp admitted that while earlier versions of the script facilitated a more straightforward reveal, Soderbergh opted for an approach that embraced greater ambiguity. Koepp expressed some surprise at how this decision impacted audience perceptions:

It surprises me that some people don’t get that. I feel like it’s thunderingly clear. It was even a little clearer at one point. I had one more setup, and Steven cut it because it’s his. He’s a little more comfortable with ambiguity than I am. And he said, ‘It’s not ambiguous.’ I said, Okay.

Understanding Tyler’s Manifestations

Koepp elaborated that Tyler’s actions as a ghost are intrinsically tied to his personality. For instance, his protectiveness over his sister serves as a driving force behind his haunting activities. The writer explained:

Which is why he doesn’t want to watch his sister having sex and when the brother talks about that horrible prank he played at school, the presence goes upstairs and trashes the brother’s room because it’s self-loathing. That all made sense to me as I was doing it.

Dissecting the Revelations in Presence

The Clarity Behind the Ghost’s Identity

In Presence, viewers are gradually led to consider Tyler as the ghost, particularly when the medium Lisa (played by Woodlams-Torr) suggests a connection to the house’s historical background. Koepp notes that understanding the film’s ending requires viewers to reflect back on earlier scenes.

Throughout the narrative, the poltergeist primarily takes on the role of a spectator, particularly focusing on the well-being of his sister Chloe amidst the family’s challenges. While Koepp suggests that many viewers might decipher this hints early on, the film offers plenty to ponder during subsequent viewings.

Reflecting on Tyler’s Role as the Ghost

Adding Emotional Layers to the Narrative

Chloe gazes at the haunting presence in Presence

Koepp’s insights into the nature of Tyler as the titular ghost open the door for viewers to revisit the early moments of the film and discover subtle clues leading to this revelation. While the latter portions of the film clarify loyalty and motivation, the earlier moments are rich with foreshadowing that invites closer inspection.

The revelation of Tyler’s identity as the ghost adds a profound melancholic dimension to the film’s narrative, transforming the viewing experience. His protective instincts towards his sister highlight a poignant farewell to a life unfulfilled, adding depth to the emotions woven throughout the story.

Source: The Wrap