Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching satire tackles the tyranny of female beauty and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a brilliant portrayal as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress reduced to starring in a workout series on TV. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to a secretive and terrifying procedure known as this experimental method. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery stars the talented actress playing Laura, an ace reporter who opts for some time off from writing about global conflict to join a luxury cruise alongside an ailing wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her spouse, plus additional affluent individuals. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and all passengers claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity take over. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh pushes his film-making abilities in this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their fresh home, the camera – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, with a twist that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor embraces his eccentric image in this meta comedy caper. He plays a self-obsessed Hollywood actor playing himself who accepts a $1m payday to attend a festive event on the Spanish island for billionaire superfan Javi. Hired by government spies to investigate the potential kingpin, his unique performing skills is put to the test. October 11th, prime time, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's claustrophobic thriller stands strong despite the lack of a sequel. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple disappearances has rendered the youth frightened. After Finney gets captured by the kidnapper and held captive in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. But the old telephone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices offering help, and the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for materialism in Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic regarding the shamed religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Garfield portrays the greedy Jim, who states at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals commence capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a riot of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, yet the lead actress achieves to depict the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh is a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked with uncovering a double agent within their ranks from five suspects – one of whom is his spouse. The two stars excel of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
