Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching satire addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of ageing. Demi Moore offers an inspired performance playing Elisabeth, a mature film star reduced to presenting an aerobics show on television. Forced aside due to her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out an enigmatic and terrifying treatment called this experimental method. This generates a younger clone called Sue, resulting in a progressively toxic connection between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque story stars the talented actress playing Laura, an ace reporter who opts for a hiatus from reporting on international wars to embark on an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her spouse, plus additional affluent individuals. Yet once an enigmatic female falls into the sea one night and all passengers insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Available now, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
The acclaimed director challenges his film-making abilities with this clever paranormal narrative captured wholly from the perspective of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their fresh home, the camera – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of sensing the poltergeist, and it looks like guarding her. But why? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom via this self-referential adventure. He plays an egotistical celebrity named Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to visit a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, Cage's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective despite the lack of a sequel. Located in the late 70s in Denver, several kidnappings has rendered the children anxious. Once Finney gets captured by the villain and imprisoned in a cellar, he dreads a fatal end. However, the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators offering help, as the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation about the fallen televangelist and her felon spouse. The actor portrays the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals begin capitalizing on the American public's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though the lead actress achieves to depict the character with compassion. Next Tuesday, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
The current week's another release from the filmmaker delivers a spy mystery as tight similar to the collars used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He receives a mission with uncovering a mole among the team from five suspects – one of whom is his own wife. The two stars excel of deadpan cool, so a delicious mind game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast participate the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
