Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching satire addresses the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics along with the dreaded aspects of growing older. Demi Moore delivers a brilliant portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a mature celebrity reduced to starring in a workout series on TV. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a secretive and terrifying process called "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in a progressively vampiric relationship between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a break from covering global conflict to embark on a high-end voyage with a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, and other filthy rich passengers. But after an unknown lady falls into the sea one night and all passengers insists she wasn't real, her journalistic curiosity take over. Out now, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh tests his directorial skills with this innovative ghostly tale filmed completely from the viewpoint of the phantom. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their fresh home, the filming device – AKA the Presence – follows them around. The teen shows signs of aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears guarding her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Cage embraces his unique fame in this autobiographical spoof. He acts as an egotistical celebrity playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to attend a birthday party in Mallorca for the rich superfan Javi. Hired by government spies to investigate the potential kingpin, his unconventional method comes in handy. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well despite the lack of a sequel. Set in 1970s Colorado, several kidnappings has left the local kids frightened. After Finney is kidnapped by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a basement, he fears the worst. But the disconnected phone in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen could save him. An effective horror. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for Mammon in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky true story regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. The actor acts as the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple set about monetising the nation's religious faith. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, yet the lead actress succeeds to present the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. October 14th, early morning, Film4
The Spy Mystery
This period's second offering by the same director is a intelligence thriller as tight like the turtlenecks sported by Michael Fassbender's British agent. His assignment is to identify a double agent among the team from a group of five – among them is his own wife. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, so a delicious mental battle of fact versus fiction takes place. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
