Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching satire examines the tyranny of women's appearance along with the feared consequences of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents an inspired performance in the role of Elisabeth, a mature celebrity forced into hosting a fitness program on TV. Forced aside due to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to a secretive and terrifying procedure called "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate called Sue, leading to an increasingly parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit story stars Keira Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a break from reporting on international wars to embark on a high-end voyage alongside a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich passengers. But after an unknown lady goes overboard overnight and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Available now, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
The acclaimed director challenges his directorial skills in this clever supernatural story captured wholly from the perspective of the spirit. When a household including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – AKA the Presence – follows them around. Chloe seems conscious of the poltergeist, and it looks like guarding her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, with a twist that may be unexpected. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage embraces his eccentric image in this autobiographical spoof. He portrays an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to attend a birthday party on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to spy on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, evening, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well without requiring a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, multiple child abductions has rendered the local kids anxious. Once Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a dungeon, he dreads a fatal end. Yet the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with eerie communicators offering help, and the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, late evening, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for materialism in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation regarding the shamed religious broadcaster and her criminal husband. Garfield plays the venal Jim, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about monetising the people's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though the lead actress manages to depict Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. October 14th, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh is a spy mystery as sharp similar to the collars sported by Fassbender's British agent. He receives a mission to identify a mole among the team out of five possibilities – one of whom is his own wife. The two stars are masters of calm composure, so a delicious mental battle of deception or honesty unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema
