Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary tackles the demanding standards for women's appearance and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Demi Moore presents a masterful acting turn as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity reduced to starring in a fitness program on the small screen. Forced aside thanks to her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she turns to a secretive and horrifying procedure titled the Substance. This produces a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque thriller includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who opts for some time off from covering world issues to embark on a luxury cruise with an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, and other affluent individuals. But after an unknown lady goes overboard during the evening and all passengers claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director pushes his creative boundaries with this clever supernatural story shot entirely from the perspective of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their recent residence, the filming device – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The daughter appears sensing the ghostly being, and it seems protective of her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Cage embraces his cult stardom in this self-referential adventure. He portrays a self-obsessed film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to attend a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong even without a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, several kidnappings has left the youth anxious. Once Finney gets captured by the villain and held captive in a dungeon, he anticipates a fatal end. However, the old telephone mounted nearby continues to ring, with eerie communicators offering help, as the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced TV preacher and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who states at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye begin capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a riot of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though Jessica Chastain achieves to present Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. October 14th, early morning, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh presents a intelligence thriller as sharp like the turtlenecks worn by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is to identify a mole inside the organization out of five possibilities – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging psychological game of deception or honesty develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the clever spy entertainment. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
