Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Coralie Fargeat's bold satire tackles the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of growing older. Demi Moore presents a brilliant performance as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to presenting a fitness program on TV. Pushed out by her deceitful superior her manager Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and terrifying procedure known as "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a progressively parasitic dynamic between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit mystery includes Keira Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a break from reporting on international wars to embark on an opulent ship accompanied by a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, plus additional affluent passengers. But after a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and all passengers claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Out now, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills with this innovative ghostly tale filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe moves into their recent residence, the filming device – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the supernatural presence, and it looks like defensive toward her. But why? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, with a twist that may be unexpected. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage embraces his unique fame via this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who takes on a million-dollar gig to appear at a celebration on the Spanish island for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the CIA to spy on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills is put to the test. October 11th, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong even without a sequel. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has rendered the children frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and held captive in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. But the old telephone mounted nearby continues to ring, with spooky callers giving advice, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield acts as the greedy Jim, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye begin monetising the nation's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, however Jessica Chastain manages to depict Tammy Faye in a likable light. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, on Film4
Black Bag
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a mole among the team from five suspects – among them is his spouse. Each performer are masters of understated style, leading to a delightful psychological game of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast take part the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
