Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Coralie Fargeat's bold satire examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of growing older. The veteran actress delivers a masterful portrayal playing Elisabeth, a mature film star demoted to presenting a workout series on the small screen. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a secretive and horrifying treatment called the Substance. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in a progressively parasitic dynamic among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful thriller stars the talented actress playing Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from covering global conflict to join a luxury cruise with an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her spouse, as well as other affluent passengers. Yet once an unknown lady goes overboard one night and all passengers insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Out now, Netflix
Presence Film
Soderbergh tests his directorial skills through this clever paranormal narrative filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. When a household featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the lens – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The daughter appears aware of the ghostly being, and it seems guarding her. But why? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage embraces his eccentric image via this meta comedy caper. He acts as a self-obsessed film star playing himself who accepts a million-dollar gig to attend a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the CIA to gather intel on the potential kingpin, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
The director's locked-room horror stands strong without requiring a sequel. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, several kidnappings has made the youth frightened. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. However, the disconnected phone in the room repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for greed in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen televangelist and her criminal husband. Garfield plays the greedy Jim, who proclaims early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple begin profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, overdone appearance and bad faith, yet the lead actress succeeds to show the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as tight similar to the collars used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a double agent inside the organization out of five possibilities – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer excel of understated style, leading to a delightful psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
