Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching critique addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics along with the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress delivers a brilliant performance as Elisabeth, an aging film star reduced to presenting a workout series on TV. Edged out due to her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and gruesome treatment called the Substance. This creates a new version of herself called Sue, leading to an increasingly toxic connection between them. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit story stars Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who takes a hiatus from covering international wars to embark on an opulent ship alongside an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich passengers. Yet once an unknown lady falls into the sea overnight and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Out now, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director pushes his creative boundaries with this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the lens – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. Chloe seems conscious of the poltergeist, and it looks like defensive toward her. But why? It's a fun idea that remains concise, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom via this meta comedy caper. He acts as a narcissistic celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to appear at a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the CIA to investigate the alleged criminal, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, evening, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well despite the lack of a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, multiple disappearances has left the youth frightened. Once Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. However, the disconnected phone on the wall repeatedly calls, with spooky callers giving advice, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced TV preacher and her felon spouse. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who proclaims initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals begin capitalizing on the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, yet Jessica Chastain achieves to show the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
The current week's another release by the same director is a spy mystery as tight similar to the collars used by Michael Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked with uncovering a traitor within their ranks from a group of five – among them is his spouse. Both actors are masters of calm composure, leading to a delightful psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast join in the intelligent intelligence fun. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
