Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary addresses the oppressive nature of women's appearance along with the feared consequences of ageing. Demi Moore presents an inspired portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star reduced to hosting a workout series on television. Pushed out due to her slimy boss Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and gruesome treatment titled the Substance. This produces a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in an increasingly toxic connection between the two. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque story includes Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who takes some time off from covering world issues to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, plus additional filthy rich guests. However when an enigmatic female goes overboard during the evening and the entire crew claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Streaming currently, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities through this innovative ghostly tale captured wholly from the viewpoint of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their recent residence, the lens – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The daughter appears sensing the ghostly being, and the entity appears defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, multiple showings, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame in this meta comedy caper. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who takes on a lucrative offer to visit a birthday party in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, his unique performing skills proves useful. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller stands strong without requiring a follow-up. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, several disappearances has rendered the local kids frightened. Once Finney gets captured by the villain and held captive in a dungeon, he dreads a terrible outcome. But the old telephone on the wall keeps ringing, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the prescient dreams from his sibling Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, nighttime, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for materialism in this director's delightfully tacky biopic regarding the shamed religious broadcaster and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who proclaims initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye commence profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, yet the lead actress achieves to depict the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4
Black Bag
This period's another release from the filmmaker presents a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks used by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked with uncovering a traitor among the team out of five possibilities – including is his spouse. Both actors excel of calm composure, leading to a delightful mental battle of fact versus fiction develops. The supporting cast join in the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
