
Presence 1987
Directed by Yasuomi Umetsu, *Presence (1987)* is a haunting 8-minute animated short that explores the eerie intersection between isolation and creation.
Director: Yasuomi Umetsu
Cast



Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Presence (1987)* about?
The film centers on a man who secretly constructs an automaton, hoping the artificial being will replace the emotional void in his life left by his distant wife and family. His obsession spirals into a surreal quest for connection that blurs reality and fantasy.
Who directed *Presence*?
Yasuomi Umetsu directed this atmospheric sci-fi short, known for his distinctive animation style and exploration of human psychology in his works.
Who stars in *Presence*?
The film features voice performances by Kohji Moritsugu, Keiko Hanagata, Kumiko Takizawa, and Hideyuki Umezu.
Is *Presence (1987)* worth watching?
As a concise sci-fi animated short, *Presence* offers a thought-provoking exploration of loneliness and artifice, though its brevity and abstract tone may not appeal to all viewers. Its impact lies in its atmosphere rather than conventional storytelling.
How long is *Presence*?
The film runs for 8 minutes.
About Presence (1987) — A chilling 8-minute sci-fi short about obsession and loneliness
Directed by Yasuomi Umetsu, *Presence (1987)* is a haunting 8-minute animated short that explores the eerie intersection between isolation and creation. The film follows a man consumed by an obsessive project—building an automaton in secret—as a misguided attempt to fill the emotional void left by his strained relationships with his wife and family. Set against a stark, muted backdrop, the story unfolds with a creeping sense of unease, blending sci-fi intrigue with deep psychological tension. Umetsu's minimalist yet evocative animation style amplifies the film's themes of alienation and artificial connection, leaving audiences to question the blurred line between man and machine.
At its core, *Presence* is a meditation on human longing masked as technical fascination. The protagonist's quiet desperation lingers long after the credits roll, lingering in the mind like an unresolved question. Whether viewed as a critique of modern detachment or a surreal fable about the perils of obsession, this understated gem offers a concise yet powerful cinematic experience that lingers like a ghost.