Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Coralie Fargeat's daring satire examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of growing older. Demi Moore offers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star reduced to hosting an aerobics show on the small screen. Forced aside thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes a secretive and horrifying process known as the Substance. This creates a younger clone called Sue, culminating in an increasingly vampiric relationship among both women. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful thriller includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from reporting on international wars to board a luxury cruise with a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her husband, as well as other extremely wealthy guests. Yet once a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Available now, the Netflix platform
Presence
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities in this nifty paranormal narrative shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. As a family featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their recent residence, the filming device – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The daughter appears sensing the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. This Saturday, multiple showings, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image through this self-referential adventure. He portrays a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a celebration in Mallorca for the rich superfan Javi. Hired by the CIA to gather intel on the alleged criminal, his unique performing skills proves useful. Saturday 11 October, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Derrickson's locked-room horror holds up well even without a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of child abductions has made the local kids anxious. Once Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and locked up in a cellar, he fears the worst. But the old telephone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices offering help, while the prescient dreams from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, late evening, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple set about monetising the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though Jessica Chastain succeeds to present Tammy Faye with compassion. Next Tuesday, late night, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a intelligence thriller as tight like the turtlenecks worn by Fassbender's British agent. His assignment is with uncovering a double agent inside the organization from five suspects – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are experts of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
