Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold critique addresses the demanding standards for women's appearance and the feared consequences of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a brilliant performance playing Elisabeth, a mature film star reduced to starring in an aerobics show on television. Pushed out due to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying process called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery features Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a break from writing about world issues to board a luxury cruise with a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her spouse, and other filthy rich individuals. However when an enigmatic female disappears from the ship overnight and everyone claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Streaming currently, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities in this clever ghostly tale filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The daughter appears aware of the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. But why? It's a fun idea that remains concise, with a twist you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his unique fame through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to attend a celebration at a Mediterranean location for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the CIA to gather intel on the alleged criminal, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, evening, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror holds up well without requiring a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, multiple child abductions has left the youth anxious. Once Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he fears a fatal end. Yet the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in this director's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced televangelist and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple commence capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, however Jessica Chastain succeeds to depict the real-life figure in a likable light. Next Tuesday, late night, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks sported by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked to discover a double agent inside the organization from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mental battle of truth or lie takes place. The supporting cast participate the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
