Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary tackles the oppressive nature of female beauty along with the perceived horrors of growing older. Demi Moore offers an inspired portrayal playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity demoted to presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying treatment called this experimental method. This produces a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly toxic connection among both women. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit mystery features Knightley playing Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from reporting on international wars to board an opulent ship alongside a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other extremely wealthy passengers. Yet once a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and everyone denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Out now, Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries in this clever ghostly tale shot entirely through the eyes of the spirit. When a household including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the ghostly being, and it looks like defensive toward her. But why? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a narcissistic Hollywood actor called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to spy on the potential kingpin, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective even without a follow-up. Located in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has rendered the local kids on edge. After Finney gets captured by the villain and held captive in a basement, he anticipates a fatal end. However, the old telephone in the room keeps ringing, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for materialism in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the venal Jim, who declares initially, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple begin profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of bad interior design, overdone appearance and insincerity, however Chastain achieves to present Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, late night, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh delivers a espionage tale as precise similar to the collars worn by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a traitor among the team from a group of five – including is his own wife. The two stars excel of calm composure, so a delicious mind game of deception or honesty develops. The supporting cast take part the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, various showings, the Sky channel
