Top Selection
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics along with the dreaded aspects of advancing years. The veteran actress presents a masterful performance as Elisabeth, an aging celebrity reduced to hosting an aerobics show on the small screen. Forced aside thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to a secretive and terrifying procedure known as the Substance. This generates a younger clone called Sue, leading to a progressively parasitic dynamic between the two. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful mystery includes the talented actress in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a hiatus from reporting on world issues to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her partner, plus additional extremely wealthy guests. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Out now, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh challenges his directorial skills in this innovative supernatural story filmed completely from the viewpoint of a ghost. As a family including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their recent residence, the lens – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The daughter appears aware of the poltergeist, and it seems protective of her. But why? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage embraces his unique fame through this meta comedy caper. He portrays a narcissistic celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by government spies to gather intel on the potential kingpin, his unique performing skills proves useful. Saturday 11 October, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong without requiring a follow-up. Located in the late 70s in Denver, several disappearances has made the youth frightened. After Finney is taken by the villain and locked up in a dungeon, he anticipates a fatal end. But the old telephone mounted nearby continues to ring, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen might rescue him. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen TV preacher and her criminal husband. Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about monetising the American public's religious faith. It's a riot of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, yet Chastain achieves to present the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh presents a espionage tale as sharp similar to the collars used by the actor's British agent. He receives a mission to identify a traitor inside the organization from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of understated style, so a delicious mental battle of fact versus fiction unfolds. Additional actors join in the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema
