Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary tackles the tyranny of female beauty along with the perceived horrors of growing older. Demi Moore delivers an inspired portrayal as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity reduced to hosting a fitness program on television. Forced aside thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and gruesome process called "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in a progressively parasitic dynamic between the two. This Friday, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque story features Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who takes some time off from reporting on world issues to board a high-end voyage with an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her husband, plus additional extremely wealthy individuals. But after an unknown lady falls into the sea overnight and everyone denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Available now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills in this innovative supernatural story captured wholly from the perspective of the phantom. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their recent residence, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and the entity appears guarding her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage embraces his unique fame in this meta comedy caper. He acts as a self-obsessed Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who takes on a lucrative offer to visit a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Hired by government spies to spy on the alleged criminal, Cage's unique performing skills proves useful. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has left the local kids frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and imprisoned in a cellar, he dreads the worst. However, the disconnected phone on the wall keeps ringing, with ghostly voices offering help, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for Mammon in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish true story regarding the shamed TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who declares at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the people's spiritual convictions. It's a riot of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though the lead actress achieves to present the real-life figure in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's second offering by the same director delivers a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks sported by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is with uncovering a double agent within their ranks from a group of five – one of whom is his spouse. The two stars excel of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful mental battle of fact versus fiction takes place. The supporting cast take part the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
