Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary tackles the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics along with the perceived horrors of advancing years. Demi Moore offers a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress demoted to starring in a workout series on television. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and terrifying treatment called "The Substance". This generates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in an increasingly parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes the talented actress as Laura, a top-notch writer who takes some time off from reporting on world issues to embark on a luxury cruise with a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, as well as other filthy rich individuals. But after an enigmatic female disappears from the ship overnight and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh challenges his directorial skills through this innovative ghostly tale shot entirely through the eyes of the spirit. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the filming device – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The daughter appears conscious of the poltergeist, and it looks like protective of her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image through this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who takes on a lucrative offer to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy superfan Javi. Recruited by government spies to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, his unconventional method comes in handy. October 11th, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well even without a sequel. Taking place in 1978 Denver, multiple child abductions has rendered the children anxious. When Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and locked up in a cellar, he fears the worst. But the non-functional line mounted nearby keeps ringing, with ghostly voices providing assistance, while the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for greed in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the nation's religious faith. It's a riot of bad interior design, bad makeup and hypocrisy, however the lead actress manages to present Tammy Faye with compassion. October 14th, late night, Film4
Black Bag
This period's second offering by the same director delivers a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks used by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked to identify a double agent among the team from a group of five – among them is his own wife. Each performer excel of understated style, resulting in an engaging psychological game of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
