Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring satire tackles the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics as well as the perceived horrors of advancing years. The veteran actress presents a brilliant acting turn playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to starring in a fitness program on television. Edged out due to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and horrifying procedure called "The Substance". This produces a younger clone called Sue, culminating in a steadily more toxic connection between the two. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful story features the talented actress in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take a break from writing about international wars to board a luxury cruise accompanied by a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, and other affluent individuals. But after an enigmatic female goes overboard one night and everyone insists she wasn't real, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence
Steven Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities through this nifty supernatural story shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their recent residence, the camera – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and it looks like protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor embraces his unique fame via this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic film star called Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to visit a birthday party on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to investigate the alleged criminal, Cage's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, prime time, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's locked-room horror holds up well despite the lack of a continuation. Located in 1970s Colorado, several child abductions has left the children anxious. When Finney is taken by the villain and locked up in a basement, he dreads the worst. But the non-functional line in the room keeps ringing, with ghostly voices offering help, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. October 11th, late evening, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation regarding the shamed religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple begin monetising the nation's religious faith. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, however Chastain manages to depict the character in a likable light. October 14th, early morning, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's another release by the same director is a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks sported by the actor's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a mole within their ranks from a group of five – including is his own wife. The two stars are masters of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty takes place. Additional actors join in the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
