Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Demi Moore presents a brilliant portrayal playing Elisabeth, a mature film star forced into hosting a fitness program on TV. Edged out due to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying process known as the Substance. This produces a younger clone called Sue, culminating in a steadily more toxic connection among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful story includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a break from reporting on international wars to join a high-end voyage alongside a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her husband, and other filthy rich individuals. Yet once an enigmatic female disappears from the ship during the evening and all passengers denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Available now, Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries through this innovative paranormal narrative filmed completely from the perspective of the phantom. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the camera – representing the ghost – follows them around. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame in this self-referential adventure. He plays a narcissistic celebrity named Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to attend a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the CIA to spy on the alleged criminal, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. This Saturday, 9pm, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective even without a continuation. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple child abductions has left the local kids frightened. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a dungeon, he anticipates the worst. But the disconnected phone mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with spooky callers providing assistance, as the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for greed in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation about the fallen religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a riot of poor styling, bad makeup and bad faith, however Jessica Chastain succeeds to show the character in a likable light. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's another release from Steven Soderbergh is a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a mole among the team from five suspects – one of whom is his own wife. Each performer excel of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful psychological game of deception or honesty takes place. Additional actors join in the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, multiple time slots, the Sky channel
