Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's daring critique tackles the tyranny of feminine aesthetics as well as the dreaded aspects of advancing years. Demi Moore delivers a masterful performance playing Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into presenting a workout series on television. Forced aside due to her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she seeks out an enigmatic and terrifying treatment known as the Substance. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, resulting in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful thriller stars the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take a break from reporting on international wars to join a luxury cruise alongside an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her husband, and other filthy rich guests. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and the entire crew denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Streaming currently, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities through this nifty ghostly tale shot entirely from the viewpoint of the phantom. After a clan with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the lens – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems conscious of the ghostly being, and it seems guarding her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that remains concise, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage embraces his unique fame in this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed film star named Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to attend a festive event on the Spanish island for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his unconventional method proves useful. This Saturday, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong without requiring a continuation. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of child abductions has rendered the local kids frightened. Once Finney is kidnapped by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. Yet the non-functional line on the wall continues to ring, with eerie communicators providing assistance, as the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, late evening, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for materialism in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic regarding the shamed TV preacher and her felon spouse. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who states at the beginning, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye commence capitalizing on the nation's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and bad faith, though Chastain manages to present Tammy Faye with compassion. October 14th, early morning, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
The current week's another release by the same director presents a spy mystery as precise similar to the collars used by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission to identify a mole inside the organization from a group of five – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of calm composure, so a delicious mental battle of deception or honesty unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
