Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching satire examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the dreaded aspects of growing older. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a masterful acting turn playing Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Pushed out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to a mysterious and gruesome process known as "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself called Sue, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit story stars Knightley playing Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from reporting on world issues to embark on a luxury cruise with an ailing wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other extremely wealthy individuals. Yet once an enigmatic female disappears from the ship during the evening and everyone denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Available now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities with this nifty ghostly tale filmed completely from the viewpoint of a ghost. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their recent residence, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the supernatural presence, and the entity appears guarding her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that could catch you off guard. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage embraces his eccentric image via this meta comedy caper. He portrays a narcissistic film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to attend a festive event in Mallorca for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Recruited by the intelligence agency to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's locked-room horror holds up well despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, several disappearances has rendered the local kids anxious. When Finney is taken by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a cellar, he anticipates a terrible outcome. But the old telephone mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. An effective horror. This Saturday, late evening, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for materialism in Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation regarding the shamed televangelist and her felon spouse. Garfield acts as the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple commence profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though Chastain manages to show the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, late night, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This period's second offering from Steven Soderbergh presents a spy mystery as precise as the polo necks sported by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked with uncovering a mole within their ranks from a group of five – one of whom is his own wife. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging psychological game of fact versus fiction develops. The supporting cast participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
