Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's daring critique tackles the tyranny of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of advancing years. The veteran actress offers an inspired acting turn as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star reduced to presenting a workout series on television. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a secretive and horrifying procedure known as "The Substance". This creates a youthful duplicate portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful story features Keira Knightley playing Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from writing about global conflict to join an opulent ship with a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her husband, as well as other affluent passengers. However when a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Streaming currently, on Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries in this innovative paranormal narrative filmed completely from the viewpoint of the phantom. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of aware of the ghostly being, and it seems guarding her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that remains concise, including a revelation that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
The iconic actor fully commits to his eccentric image via this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a narcissistic film star called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to appear at a festive event at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the CIA to spy on the potential kingpin, the actor's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong without requiring a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has rendered the local kids on edge. When Finney is taken by the villain and imprisoned in a cellar, he anticipates a terrible outcome. But the non-functional line in the room repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators offering help, while the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story regarding the shamed religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who declares at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple begin monetising the American public's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and bad faith, though Jessica Chastain achieves to present the character in a likable light. Next Tuesday, late night, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh is a spy mystery as precise like the turtlenecks sported by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission to identify a mole inside the organization out of five possibilities – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are experts of understated style, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
