Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching satire examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the perceived horrors of growing older. Demi Moore presents a brilliant acting turn as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity forced into hosting an aerobics show on TV. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying process titled the Substance. This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque thriller stars the talented actress in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a hiatus from writing about global conflict to join a high-end voyage alongside an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her spouse, plus additional filthy rich individuals. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard one night and all passengers denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Out now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh tests his directorial skills in this nifty supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the filming device – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of sensing the ghostly being, and the entity appears defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that remains concise, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor fully commits to his eccentric image via this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a narcissistic Hollywood actor playing himself who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a festive event on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unconventional method comes in handy. October 11th, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong despite the lack of a follow-up. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of disappearances has made the youth on edge. After Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and held captive in a basement, he anticipates a terrible outcome. However, the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with eerie communicators offering help, while the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, nighttime, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation about the fallen televangelist and her felon spouse. The actor acts as the venal Jim, who proclaims early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple set about monetising the American public's religious faith. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though the lead actress succeeds to show the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, Film4
The Spy Mystery
The current week's another release from the filmmaker delivers a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks worn by the actor's British agent. His assignment is to identify a mole among the team out of five possibilities – one of whom is his spouse. Both actors are masters of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mind game of truth or lie takes place. The supporting cast participate the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
