Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique tackles the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of growing older. The veteran actress offers a brilliant portrayal as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity forced into starring in an aerobics show on TV. Edged out by her deceitful superior Harvey, she turns to a secretive and gruesome treatment titled the Substance. This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a steadily more vampiric relationship among both women. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque thriller includes Keira Knightley playing Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for a hiatus from reporting on global conflict to board an opulent ship with a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her husband, plus additional extremely wealthy guests. However when an enigmatic female disappears from the ship overnight and the entire crew claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Out now, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities in this innovative supernatural story shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. As a family including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of conscious of the supernatural presence, and it looks like protective of her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that remains concise, including a revelation you might not see coming. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image in this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong even without a sequel. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of disappearances has left the local kids frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and locked up in a basement, he fears a terrible outcome. Yet the disconnected phone mounted nearby continues to ring, with spooky callers providing assistance, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals commence monetising the nation's religious faith. It's a spectacle of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though Jessica Chastain manages to depict the character in a likable light. October 14th, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's additional entry by the same director presents a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's British agent. He receives a mission to discover a double agent among the team from five suspects – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars excel of understated style, leading to a delightful psychological game of deception or honesty develops. Additional actors participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
