Top Selection
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring commentary tackles the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents an inspired performance playing Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into hosting a fitness program on television. Edged out due to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a mysterious and terrifying process known as "The Substance". This creates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly vampiric relationship between them. This Friday, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit story features Keira Knightley playing Laura, an ace reporter who opts for a hiatus from reporting on global conflict to board an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other affluent guests. However when a mysterious woman goes overboard during the evening and the entire crew claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Streaming currently, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director challenges his directorial skills in this clever ghostly tale captured wholly through the eyes of the phantom. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and it seems guarding her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea 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
Cage embraces his cult stardom via this autobiographical spoof. He plays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a lucrative offer to attend a celebration on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective despite the lack of a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has made the children frightened. When Finney gets captured by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a dungeon, he dreads the worst. But the disconnected phone in the room keeps ringing, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen could save him. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Showalter's wonderfully garish true story about the fallen religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who states at the beginning, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye begin monetising the American public's religious faith. It's a riot of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though Chastain succeeds to present the character with compassion. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a espionage tale as tight similar to the collars used by the actor's intelligence officer. His assignment is to identify a mole among the team from a group of five – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of fact versus fiction takes place. The supporting cast join in the intelligent intelligence fun. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
