Yeah, this is an extremely slow film, no doubt about that. I don't think the first word is spoken until like 15 minutes into the story, and that's just by a boatman who happens to be dropping off some supplies.
What this plays like is a very, VERY slow-build, old fashioned Ghost Story. Sort of like the American equivalent of the Classic British Ghost Story. As long as you appreciate films like this, then you will understand and enjoy the narrative as it plays out. There is indeed quite a sense of Mystery, the audience wondering, for quite some time, who this 'Presence' is in the house that the woman apparently does not see.
You are most definitely NOT going to get any flash and bang in this one. What you DO get are some excellent performances, both by the ever lovely Mira Sorvino and her co-stars. You even get the angle where, 'Is this guy too good to be true?' But, everything is answered as you go along, and it is done well.
About half way through the real plot kicks in and you begin to understand the Good vs. Evil theme that is being played out. You also begin to understand why Ms. Sorvino is acting the way she is. The only thing you don't quite get explained is precisely who the 'Presence' actually is and what part he has played, thus the reason that right after finishing this review, I'm immediately going straight out online and get a few explanations... : )
If you enjoy real slow-burn, intriguing stories with a strong sense of Mystery, and a nice, ponderous but slowly building suspense, and if you of course appreciate movies that are well done, AND you aren't looking for a lot of action and violence, then there is a good chance you may enjoy this one.
