Prime Television Selections: 7 Essential Motion Pictures This Week
Top Selection
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique examines the tyranny of women's appearance and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into hosting an aerobics show on television. Forced aside by her deceitful superior her manager Harvey, she undergoes a secretive and horrifying process titled the Substance. This produces a youthful duplicate named Sue, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque story features Keira Knightley playing Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a break from reporting on world issues to board an opulent ship with an ailing wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her partner, plus additional extremely wealthy guests. Yet once a mysterious woman falls into the sea one night and the entire crew denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity take over. Available now, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries in this innovative supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the lens – AKA the Presence – follows them around. The teen shows signs of sensing the supernatural presence, and it looks like defensive toward her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that remains concise, with a twist you might not see coming. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Cage embraces his cult stardom through this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical celebrity playing himself who accepts a $1m payday to appear at a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the alleged criminal, Cage's unconventional method proves useful. October 11th, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong even without a follow-up. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has left the local kids on edge. After Finney is taken by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a dungeon, he anticipates a fatal end. But the old telephone in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators providing assistance, as the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, however Jessica Chastain succeeds to show Tammy Faye in a likable light. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, on Film4
Black Bag
This week's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks worn by the actor's British agent. He is tasked to discover a mole among the team from five suspects – including is his spouse. The two stars excel of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
