Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold satire addresses the oppressive nature of women's appearance as well as the perceived horrors of ageing. Demi Moore presents a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to starring in a fitness program on the small screen. Pushed out by her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out an enigmatic and terrifying treatment called the Substance. This creates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in a steadily more vampiric relationship between them. This Friday, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque story includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for some time off from reporting on world issues to embark on an opulent ship with a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her partner, plus additional extremely wealthy individuals. But after an unknown lady goes overboard during the evening and all passengers denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Streaming currently, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
The acclaimed director tests his creative boundaries with this clever supernatural story shot entirely through the eyes of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their fresh home, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of conscious of the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. But why? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, including a revelation that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom in this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical film star called Nicolas Cage who takes on a million-dollar gig to attend a festive event on the Spanish island for the rich superfan Javi. Contacted by government spies to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his unique performing skills proves useful. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective even without a follow-up. Set in 1978 Denver, multiple kidnappings has rendered the youth anxious. When Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a cellar, he dreads the worst. However, the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with spooky callers offering help, while the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who proclaims initially, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals begin profiting from the people's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, however Jessica Chastain achieves to depict the character with compassion. October 14th, late night, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
The current week's another release from the filmmaker presents a spy mystery as precise as the polo necks sported by Michael Fassbender's British agent. His assignment is to discover a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
