Pick of the Week
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's daring critique examines the oppressive nature of women's appearance as well as the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress delivers a brilliant portrayal playing Elisabeth, an aging film star reduced to starring in an aerobics show on the small screen. Forced aside due to her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and terrifying process called the Substance. This creates a youthful duplicate portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a progressively toxic connection among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit story includes Keira Knightley as Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a break from writing about world issues to join an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her partner, plus additional extremely wealthy individuals. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard during the evening and all passengers insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
The acclaimed director tests his creative boundaries through this nifty ghostly tale shot entirely through the eyes of the spirit. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their fresh home, the lens – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The daughter appears aware of the ghostly being, and the entity appears guarding her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist you might not see coming. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage embraces his cult stardom via this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to attend a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. This Saturday, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a continuation. Located in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has made the youth on edge. After Finney is taken by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a basement, he dreads the worst. But the non-functional line in the room repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators offering help, and the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, late evening, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who proclaims initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. Both individuals begin monetising the American public's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and insincerity, however the lead actress achieves to present Tammy Faye with compassion. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a intelligence thriller as precise as the polo necks sported by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked with uncovering a mole among the team from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of calm composure, leading to a delightful psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema
