Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's daring commentary examines the oppressive nature of female beauty and the dreaded aspects of ageing. The veteran actress offers an inspired acting turn playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity demoted to hosting an aerobics show on TV. Edged out due to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out an enigmatic and terrifying process titled "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly parasitic dynamic among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery features Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who takes some time off from reporting on world issues to join a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich guests. Yet once an unknown lady falls into the sea during the evening and the entire crew claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Streaming currently, on Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities in this nifty supernatural story filmed completely from the perspective of the spirit. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the lens – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. The daughter appears sensing the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame in this autobiographical spoof. He portrays an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who takes on a million-dollar gig to appear at a birthday party in Mallorca for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Recruited by government spies to spy on the alleged criminal, his unique performing skills is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, prime time, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well despite the lack of a sequel. Located in 1970s Colorado, multiple kidnappings has rendered the youth on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and held captive in a cellar, he fears a fatal end. Yet the non-functional line on the wall repeatedly calls, with spooky callers giving advice, and the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen could save him. A genuinely scary movie. This Saturday, nighttime, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story about the fallen religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield portrays the greedy Jim, who states initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the people's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of poor styling, bad makeup and bad faith, yet Jessica Chastain achieves to present Tammy Faye in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
This period's another release by the same director is a spy mystery as precise as the polo necks used by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked with uncovering a mole within their ranks from a group of five – among them is his own wife. The two stars excel of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mind game of deception or honesty unfolds. The supporting cast participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
