Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique examines the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore delivers a masterful performance in the role of Elisabeth, a mature film star forced into starring in a workout series on television. Forced aside thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and horrifying treatment known as the Substance. This creates a youthful duplicate called Sue, culminating in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between the two. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque story stars Keira Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a break from covering world issues to join an opulent ship accompanied by an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her spouse, and other extremely wealthy guests. But after an unknown lady disappears from the ship overnight and all passengers claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries with this nifty ghostly tale filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. When a household including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems sensing the poltergeist, and it looks like protective of her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
The iconic actor fully commits to his unique fame in this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical Hollywood actor called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to appear at a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the CIA to spy on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
The director's contained scarefest stands strong despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, a series of disappearances has left the youth on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and locked up in a dungeon, he anticipates a terrible outcome. But the old telephone mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with spooky callers offering help, as the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen could save him. An effective horror. October 11th, late evening, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for greed in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story about the fallen TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor acts as the venal Jim, who declares initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. Both individuals commence capitalizing on the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of bad interior design, bad makeup and bad faith, though the lead actress achieves to present the real-life figure with compassion. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, Film4
Black Bag
This period's additional entry by the same director is a intelligence thriller as precise similar to the collars worn by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is to identify a mole inside the organization from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer excel of calm composure, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, multiple time slots, the Sky channel
