Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold critique tackles the oppressive nature of female beauty as well as the perceived horrors of advancing years. The veteran actress offers an inspired performance in the role of Elisabeth, an aging film star forced into hosting a fitness program on television. Pushed out due to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying treatment known as "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in an increasingly vampiric relationship between them. October 17th, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque story includes Keira Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a hiatus from covering world issues to board a high-end voyage with a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other extremely wealthy passengers. However when an enigmatic female falls into the sea during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh tests his directorial skills in this innovative paranormal narrative captured wholly from the viewpoint of the spirit. When a household including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their recent residence, the lens – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. Chloe seems conscious of the ghostly being, and the entity appears defensive toward her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, with a twist that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, multiple showings, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage fully commits to his unique fame in this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to attend a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the rich superfan Javi. Recruited by the CIA to investigate the potential kingpin, the actor's unconventional method proves useful. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong despite the lack of a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has left the local kids frightened. After Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a cellar, he dreads a terrible outcome. Yet the old telephone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices giving advice, as the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister could save him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, late evening, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's brilliantly over-the-top true story about the fallen religious broadcaster and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who states at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals commence monetising the people's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, yet Jessica Chastain achieves to present the character with compassion. Next Tuesday, early morning, Film4
Black Bag
This period's second offering from the filmmaker presents a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks sported by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission with uncovering a traitor within their ranks from five suspects – among them is his spouse. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful mind game of truth or lie unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the intelligent intelligence fun. This Friday, multiple time slots, the Sky channel
