Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique addresses the oppressive nature of female beauty along with the feared consequences of ageing. Demi Moore presents a brilliant acting turn as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity reduced to presenting an aerobics show on television. Edged out by her slimy boss Harvey, she seeks out a secretive and terrifying procedure titled "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a steadily more toxic connection between the two. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit thriller features Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from covering global conflict to join a high-end voyage accompanied by an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, and other extremely wealthy individuals. But after an enigmatic female goes overboard overnight and everyone denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Out now, on Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh pushes his film-making abilities through this innovative paranormal narrative shot entirely from the perspective of a ghost. As a family including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the filming device – representing the ghost – follows them around. The daughter appears conscious of the ghostly being, and it looks like protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage embraces his unique fame through this self-referential adventure. He portrays a narcissistic film star named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to appear at a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the alleged criminal, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. Saturday 11 October, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong without requiring a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple kidnappings has rendered the youth on edge. After Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a basement, he anticipates a terrible outcome. However, the disconnected phone in the room keeps ringing, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the venal Jim, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple commence monetising the American public's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, however Jessica Chastain manages to present the character in a likable light. October 14th, early morning, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks used by Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission with uncovering a double agent inside the organization from five suspects – among them is his spouse. Each performer are experts of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
