Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary tackles the oppressive nature of women's appearance and the perceived horrors of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers an inspired acting turn playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity reduced to presenting a workout series on the small screen. Pushed out by her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and gruesome treatment known as the Substance. This produces a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly parasitic dynamic between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful story stars Keira Knightley playing Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a hiatus from reporting on global conflict to board a luxury cruise with an ailing wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her partner, plus additional filthy rich individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman disappears from the ship one night and all passengers denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence
The acclaimed director tests his directorial skills with this nifty supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. When a household including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the filming device – AKA the Presence – follows them around. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and the entity appears protective of her. But why? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame in this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed Hollywood actor playing himself who takes on a million-dollar gig to appear at a celebration in Mallorca for the rich superfan Javi. Recruited by the CIA to investigate the potential kingpin, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong despite the lack of a follow-up. Located in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has rendered the local kids anxious. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and held captive in a cellar, he fears a fatal end. However, the old telephone in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators giving advice, and the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. This Saturday, late evening, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for greed in Showalter's wonderfully garish true story regarding the shamed televangelist and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who states early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the American public's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, however the lead actress achieves to present the character with compassion. Next Tuesday, early morning, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh is a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks used by the actor's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a double agent among the team from five suspects – including is his spouse. Both actors excel of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mental battle of fact versus fiction unfolds. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
