Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold commentary examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of growing older. Demi Moore offers a masterful portrayal playing Elisabeth, an aging film star reduced to presenting a fitness program on TV. Forced aside thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying process known as "The Substance". This generates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery features the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for some time off from covering world issues to embark on a luxury cruise alongside a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, plus additional filthy rich passengers. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Available now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities in this nifty paranormal narrative filmed completely from the perspective of a ghost. As a family with Lucy Liu as 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 ghostly being, and it looks like guarding her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, including a revelation that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his unique fame in this self-referential adventure. He plays a narcissistic film star playing himself who accepts a $1m payday to attend a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to investigate the potential kingpin, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, evening, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well without requiring a sequel. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple disappearances has rendered the youth on edge. When Finney is taken by the villain and imprisoned in a basement, he fears the worst. But the non-functional line mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with spooky callers giving advice, while the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, nighttime, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for Mammon in Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic of the disgraced TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the venal Jim, who declares early on, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about profiting from the American public's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and insincerity, yet the lead actress succeeds to depict the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
This period's second offering from the filmmaker presents a intelligence thriller as precise like the turtlenecks sported by Fassbender's UK spy. His assignment is with uncovering a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors are masters of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful psychological game of deception or honesty takes place. The supporting cast take part the clever spy entertainment. This Friday, various showings, the Sky channel
