Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's bold critique examines the oppressive nature of female beauty and the perceived horrors of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore delivers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature film star forced into presenting a fitness program on the small screen. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying process known as "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between the two. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery stars the talented actress in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a hiatus from covering international wars to join a luxury cruise accompanied by an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, plus additional extremely wealthy passengers. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship during the evening and everyone denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Out now, on Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities in this innovative paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their fresh home, the filming device – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and it seems protective of her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, with a twist you might not see coming. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage fully commits to his eccentric image in this self-referential adventure. He acts as an egotistical film star called Nicolas Cage who takes on a million-dollar gig to visit a celebration at a Mediterranean location for billionaire superfan Javi. Recruited by the intelligence agency to spy on the alleged criminal, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's contained scarefest remains effective without requiring a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has made the youth frightened. When Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and locked up in a dungeon, he dreads the worst. However, the non-functional line mounted nearby continues to ring, with spooky callers providing assistance, as the prescient dreams from his sibling Gwen might rescue him. An effective horror. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for greed in this director's wonderfully garish biopic regarding the shamed TV preacher and her criminal husband. Garfield portrays the greedy Jim, who declares at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about monetising the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though Jessica Chastain succeeds to show the character with compassion. October 14th, early morning, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
This week's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a intelligence thriller as precise similar to the collars sported by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to identify a double agent inside the organization from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty takes place. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
