Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching satire tackles the demanding standards for women's appearance as well as the perceived horrors of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into starring in a workout series on TV. Pushed out by her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and terrifying treatment known as "The Substance". This produces a younger clone named Sue, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery features Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who takes a hiatus from covering international wars to board a luxury cruise alongside a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her spouse, and other extremely wealthy individuals. But after an enigmatic female goes overboard one night and all passengers denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence
Soderbergh tests his directorial skills in this nifty paranormal narrative captured wholly through the eyes of a ghost. When a household including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the camera – representing the ghost – follows them around. The daughter appears sensing the supernatural presence, and it looks like defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor fully commits to his eccentric image through this autobiographical spoof. He plays an egotistical Hollywood actor called Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to appear at a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the alleged criminal, Cage's unique performing skills proves useful. October 11th, evening, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of child abductions has made the youth frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and held captive in a dungeon, he fears a fatal end. However, the old telephone on the wall keeps ringing, with spooky callers offering help, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, late evening, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story regarding the shamed religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield plays the venal Jim, who states initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals commence profiting from the nation's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of bad interior design, bad makeup and hypocrisy, yet Chastain succeeds to show the real-life figure with compassion. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This period's second offering from the filmmaker delivers a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks sported by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a mole among the team out of five possibilities – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer excel of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful psychological game of fact versus fiction unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, various showings, the Sky channel
