Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's daring critique examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics along with the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress offers a brilliant performance in the role of Elisabeth, a mature film star demoted to hosting a fitness program on television. Forced aside by her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to a secretive and gruesome process called "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself named Sue, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic between the two. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque thriller includes Knightley playing Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a hiatus from reporting on global conflict to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other extremely wealthy passengers. However when an unknown lady falls into the sea overnight and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Available now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
The acclaimed director challenges his creative boundaries in this nifty paranormal narrative captured wholly through the eyes of the spirit. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their fresh home, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems conscious of the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this autobiographical spoof. He plays a narcissistic Hollywood actor playing himself who takes on a million-dollar gig to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, the actor's unique performing skills is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective even without a follow-up. Located in the late 70s in Denver, several kidnappings has left the youth frightened. When Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and locked up in a cellar, he anticipates a fatal end. Yet the disconnected phone on the wall repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators offering help, as the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for materialism in this director's wonderfully garish film adaptation of the disgraced televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield acts as the corrupt Bakker, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the American public's religious faith. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, bad makeup and hypocrisy, though Jessica Chastain achieves to depict the character with compassion. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh is a spy mystery as tight similar to the collars worn by the actor's intelligence officer. He is tasked to identify a double agent within their ranks out of five possibilities – one of whom is his own wife. Both actors excel of understated style, so a delicious mental battle of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, various showings, the Sky channel
