Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's daring critique examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of ageing. Demi Moore presents an inspired performance in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress reduced to presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Pushed out thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to an enigmatic and gruesome treatment called the Substance. This creates a younger clone named Sue, resulting in a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful mystery stars Keira Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a break from writing about international wars to join a high-end voyage with an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other filthy rich individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman falls into the sea one night and everyone insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities with this nifty supernatural story filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their recent residence, the lens – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and the entity appears protective of her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist you might not see coming. This Saturday, multiple showings, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his cult stardom via this autobiographical spoof. He acts as an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to appear at a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's locked-room horror holds up well even without a follow-up. Taking place in 1978 Denver, several kidnappings has left the local kids anxious. When Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a basement, he anticipates the worst. Yet the non-functional line mounted nearby continues to ring, with spooky callers providing assistance, while the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, however Chastain manages to present the character with compassion. October 14th, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's additional entry by the same director is a spy mystery as precise like the turtlenecks worn by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked to identify a mole within their ranks from five suspects – among them is his spouse. Both actors are experts of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mind game of truth or lie takes place. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
