Top Selection
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique examines the demanding standards for female beauty and the feared consequences of ageing. Demi Moore presents an inspired portrayal playing Elisabeth, an aging actress reduced to presenting a workout series on television. Pushed out by her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and gruesome treatment called this experimental method. This creates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly toxic connection between the two. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful thriller features the talented actress in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take some time off from covering international wars to embark on a high-end voyage with a terminally ill Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her partner, plus additional affluent passengers. However when an unknown lady falls into the sea one night and the entire crew claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Available now, on Netflix
Presence Film
The acclaimed director tests his film-making abilities through this innovative paranormal narrative captured wholly through the eyes of the spirit. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe moves into their recent residence, the camera – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of aware of the supernatural presence, and it looks like defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor embraces his unique fame in this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who agrees to a $1m payday to attend a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the rich superfan Javi. Hired by the intelligence agency to spy on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills is put to the test. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective without requiring a continuation. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has rendered the local kids frightened. When Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a cellar, he anticipates a terrible outcome. But the non-functional line mounted nearby continues to ring, with eerie communicators giving advice, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for materialism in this director's delightfully tacky biopic about the fallen TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield plays the venal Jim, who proclaims initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. Both individuals set about profiting from the American public's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of bad interior design, bad makeup and insincerity, though the lead actress succeeds to present Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as sharp like the turtlenecks used by the actor's intelligence officer. His assignment is with uncovering a double agent among the team from five suspects – including is his spouse. Each performer are experts of calm composure, leading to a delightful psychological game of fact versus fiction develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, various showings, the Sky channel
