Pick of the Week
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique addresses the tyranny of feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of growing older. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a masterful portrayal as Elisabeth, an aging film star demoted to starring in a workout series on television. Pushed out thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and gruesome process known as this experimental method. This produces a new version of herself called Sue, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic between the two. This Friday, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful story features the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take a break from writing about global conflict to join an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her partner, and other affluent guests. Yet once an unknown lady falls into the sea overnight and everyone insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Streaming currently, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
The acclaimed director challenges his film-making abilities in this clever supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their fresh home, the lens – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the poltergeist, and it seems protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, including a revelation you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom via this self-referential adventure. He portrays a self-obsessed celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to attend a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. October 11th, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well despite the lack of a follow-up. Set in 1978 Denver, several child abductions has rendered the local kids frightened. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a cellar, he dreads a terrible outcome. Yet the old telephone on the wall repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators giving advice, and the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, nighttime, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for materialism in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic regarding the shamed religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. The actor acts as the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple begin profiting from the nation's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of bad interior design, overdone appearance and hypocrisy, though Jessica Chastain succeeds to show Tammy Faye in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh is a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks used by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission with uncovering a traitor within their ranks out of five possibilities – among them is his spouse. The two stars are masters of calm composure, leading to a delightful mental battle of deception or honesty takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema
