Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring satire examines the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into hosting a workout series on TV. Pushed out due to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to an enigmatic and horrifying procedure called "The Substance". This produces a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic between them. This Friday, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful story features Knightley playing Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a break from covering global conflict to board an opulent ship with a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her husband, as well as other extremely wealthy guests. But after an enigmatic female disappears from the ship overnight and everyone insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills with this nifty ghostly tale filmed completely through the eyes of a ghost. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their fresh home, the filming device – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The daughter appears conscious of the ghostly being, and it looks like guarding her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that remains concise, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom via this meta comedy caper. He acts as a narcissistic celebrity playing himself who takes on a million-dollar gig to visit a birthday party in Mallorca for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the alleged criminal, his unique performing skills proves useful. This Saturday, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well despite the lack of a sequel. Taking place in 1978 Denver, several disappearances has left the youth on edge. After Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and locked up in a dungeon, he anticipates a fatal end. Yet the non-functional line in the room repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators offering help, as the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. This Saturday, late evening, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic regarding the shamed TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor acts as the venal Jim, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye commence monetising the American public's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and hypocrisy, however Jessica Chastain succeeds to present the character with compassion. Tuesday 14 October, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a intelligence thriller as sharp like the turtlenecks used by Michael Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked to identify a traitor inside the organization from a group of five – among them is his own wife. The two stars are experts of understated style, resulting in an engaging mind game of truth or lie takes place. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
