Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary examines the demanding standards for women's appearance along with the perceived horrors of growing older. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a masterful acting turn as Elisabeth, an aging film star forced into starring in a fitness program on television. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and horrifying treatment called the Substance. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, leading to an increasingly toxic connection between them. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque story includes Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take some time off from reporting on world issues to embark on a high-end voyage alongside a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her husband, plus additional affluent guests. Yet once an unknown lady disappears from the ship one night and the entire crew claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Out now, on Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries in this innovative ghostly tale filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. As a family featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their recent residence, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, including a revelation you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom via this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's unconventional method comes in handy. This Saturday, 9pm, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's contained scarefest holds up well even without a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of child abductions has left the local kids on edge. Once Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and held captive in a dungeon, he fears a terrible outcome. Yet the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators providing assistance, and the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, late evening, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for greed in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation regarding the shamed televangelist and her felon spouse. The actor plays the greedy Jim, who states initially, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about monetising the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, though Chastain manages to present the character as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's additional entry from the filmmaker is a intelligence thriller as sharp as the polo necks used by Fassbender's UK spy. His assignment is with uncovering a double agent inside the organization from five suspects – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors are masters of calm composure, so a delicious mental battle of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
