Highlighted Choice
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching satire examines the tyranny of women's appearance and the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress delivers a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress reduced to starring in a workout series on TV. Edged out thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying treatment known as "The Substance". This creates a younger clone named Sue, leading to a progressively parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque story stars the talented actress as Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take some time off from writing about world issues to join an opulent ship alongside an ailing wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other affluent individuals. But after an unknown lady disappears from the ship one night and everyone denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities through this innovative ghostly tale captured wholly through the eyes of a ghost. When a household including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the lens – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. Chloe seems conscious of the poltergeist, and the entity appears guarding her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor embraces his cult stardom through this self-referential adventure. He plays a narcissistic film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to appear at a celebration in Mallorca for the wealthy superfan Javi. Contacted by the intelligence agency to spy on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. This Saturday, 9pm, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's contained scarefest stands strong despite the lack of a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of disappearances has made the local kids frightened. After Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a dungeon, he anticipates the worst. Yet the non-functional line in the room repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices offering help, while the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. Saturday 11 October, late evening, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for Mammon in this director's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the venal Jim, who states early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals begin profiting from the nation's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, yet the lead actress manages to depict Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's additional entry from the filmmaker is a spy mystery as tight like the turtlenecks used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is his own wife. Each performer excel of calm composure, leading to a delightful psychological game of fact versus fiction takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the intelligent intelligence fun. This Friday, multiple time slots, the Sky channel
