Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary addresses the oppressive nature of female beauty and the dreaded aspects of growing older. Demi Moore presents a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress demoted to hosting a fitness program on the small screen. Forced aside due to her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and terrifying treatment known as the Substance. This produces a new version of herself called Sue, leading to a progressively parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful story includes the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for some time off from reporting on global conflict to board an opulent ship alongside a terminally ill Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her husband, and other extremely wealthy passengers. Yet once an unknown lady goes overboard overnight and everyone denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity awaken. Available now, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities with this innovative supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. As a family including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the filming device – representing the ghost – follows them around. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and the entity appears defensive toward her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this self-referential adventure. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to attend a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's unconventional method comes in handy. October 11th, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong despite the lack of a continuation. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple disappearances has left the youth frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and locked up in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. Yet the old telephone on the wall keeps ringing, with eerie communicators providing assistance, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. An effective horror. This Saturday, late evening, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for materialism in this director's delightfully tacky biopic of the disgraced TV preacher and her criminal husband. The actor plays the venal Jim, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the nation's religious faith. It's a spectacle of poor styling, overdone appearance and insincerity, however Chastain manages to present Tammy Faye with compassion. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4
Black Bag
This period's second offering from Steven Soderbergh presents a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks used by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked to discover a mole within their ranks from a group of five – among them is his spouse. Both actors excel of deadpan cool, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
