Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's daring critique addresses the oppressive nature of female beauty as well as the perceived horrors of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Forced aside by her slimy boss Harvey, she seeks out an enigmatic and gruesome procedure known as the Substance. This generates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in a progressively parasitic dynamic between them. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit thriller stars the talented actress playing Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a hiatus from reporting on international wars to board a high-end voyage with a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her partner, and other filthy rich passengers. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Available now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills with this nifty paranormal narrative filmed completely from the viewpoint of a ghost. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their fresh home, the filming device – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of sensing the poltergeist, and it seems protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Cage embraces his unique fame in this self-referential adventure. He portrays a narcissistic film star playing himself who takes on a million-dollar gig to visit a birthday party in Mallorca for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by government spies to spy on the suspected cartel boss, his unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's locked-room horror remains effective despite the lack of a sequel. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has rendered the local kids on edge. When Finney gets captured by the villain and imprisoned in a cellar, he anticipates the worst. But the old telephone in the room repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in this director's wonderfully garish true story regarding the shamed religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield acts as the greedy Jim, who proclaims initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the American public's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and insincerity, yet Chastain succeeds to depict the character with compassion. October 14th, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as precise like the turtlenecks worn by the actor's UK spy. He receives a mission to identify a mole inside the organization out of five possibilities – one of whom is his spouse. Each performer excel of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of deception or honesty develops. Additional actors take part the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
