Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring satire tackles the oppressive nature of female beauty as well as the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress presents a brilliant portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity 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 horrifying process called the Substance. This generates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in an increasingly parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit thriller stars the talented actress as Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for some time off from writing about international wars to embark on a luxury cruise with an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her partner, plus additional filthy rich passengers. Yet once a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and all passengers denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Out now, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities in this clever paranormal narrative filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their fresh home, the camera – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems conscious of the ghostly being, and it seems defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his unique fame in this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to visit a celebration on the Spanish island for the wealthy superfan Javi. Recruited by the CIA to investigate the potential kingpin, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. This Saturday, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone
The director's claustrophobic thriller stands strong without requiring a sequel. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple child abductions has made the local kids on edge. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and locked up in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. But the disconnected phone mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators giving advice, as the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the venal Jim, who proclaims early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple begin monetising the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and hypocrisy, however Chastain achieves to depict Tammy Faye with compassion. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This week's second offering by the same director presents a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks used by the actor's British agent. He is tasked to discover a traitor within their ranks from a group of five – among them is his spouse. The two stars are experts of calm composure, leading to a delightful mind game of truth or lie develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
