Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of advancing years. The veteran actress presents a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to starring in a fitness program on television. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying process known as this experimental method. This produces a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in an increasingly vampiric relationship between the two. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit mystery stars the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who takes some time off from writing about world issues to join a high-end voyage alongside an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her spouse, and other extremely wealthy passengers. Yet once an enigmatic female falls into the sea overnight and the entire crew denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence
The acclaimed director challenges his film-making abilities through this clever supernatural story filmed completely from the viewpoint of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the filming device – as the unseen entity – follows them around. The teen shows signs of sensing the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor fully commits to his eccentric image via this self-referential adventure. He portrays a self-obsessed celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to visit a festive event in Mallorca for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's unconventional method proves useful. Saturday 11 October, evening, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a sequel. Taking place in 1978 Denver, several disappearances has rendered the local kids frightened. After Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. Yet the disconnected phone in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. This Saturday, 10.50pm, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for greed in Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield portrays the greedy Jim, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple begin monetising the nation's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though Jessica Chastain achieves to show the real-life figure in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's additional entry from the filmmaker is a intelligence thriller as precise similar to the collars sported by Michael Fassbender's British agent. His assignment is to identify a mole within their ranks from a group of five – including is his spouse. Each performer are masters of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of fact versus fiction unfolds. The supporting cast join in the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
