Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics along with the dreaded aspects of growing older. Demi Moore offers a brilliant performance as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity reduced to starring in a fitness program on TV. Pushed out by her slimy boss Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and terrifying procedure titled "The Substance". This generates a new version of herself called Sue, resulting in an increasingly toxic connection among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit thriller features Knightley playing Laura, an ace reporter who opts for a break from writing about global conflict to join an opulent ship accompanied by an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her partner, plus additional filthy rich guests. However when an enigmatic female falls into the sea one night and all passengers insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Out now, Netflix
Presence Film
The acclaimed director tests his creative boundaries with this innovative paranormal narrative shot entirely from the perspective of a ghost. After a clan with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of conscious of the ghostly being, and it looks like guarding her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this meta comedy caper. He plays a self-obsessed film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to appear at a birthday party on the Spanish island for the rich Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, his unique performing skills is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller stands strong despite the lack of a sequel. Located in 1978 Denver, multiple disappearances has made the children on edge. Once Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a dungeon, he fears a fatal end. Yet the old telephone on the wall repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices giving advice, as the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for Mammon in this director's delightfully tacky film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who proclaims early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple commence monetising the people's religious faith. It's a riot of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, though Chastain manages to present the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This period's another release by the same director delivers a espionage tale as sharp like the turtlenecks used by the actor's British agent. He receives a mission to identify a double agent among the team from a group of five – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of understated style, resulting in an engaging mental battle of truth or lie develops. Additional actors participate the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
