Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary tackles the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a brilliant portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into starring in a fitness program on TV. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and horrifying procedure called the Substance. This generates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively toxic connection among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful story features Knightley in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who opts for a break from reporting on global conflict to embark on a high-end voyage alongside a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her husband, as well as other affluent guests. But after a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Out now, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries through this innovative paranormal narrative shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their fresh home, the filming device – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and it looks like guarding her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. This Saturday, multiple showings, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his eccentric image in this meta comedy caper. He plays a narcissistic celebrity named Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a festive event at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills is put to the test. October 11th, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective despite the lack of a continuation. Located in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has left the youth anxious. After Finney is taken by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a basement, he fears the worst. Yet the non-functional line in the room keeps ringing, with ghostly voices giving advice, as the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. October 11th, late evening, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. The actor acts as the venal Jim, who declares initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple set about monetising the people's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, yet the lead actress achieves to present the character in a likable light. Next Tuesday, late night, Film4
Black Bag
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh is a intelligence thriller as sharp as the polo necks sported by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked to identify a mole among the team from five suspects – among them is his spouse. Both actors excel of understated style, so a delicious mind game of fact versus fiction takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the clever spy entertainment. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
