Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of ageing. Demi Moore presents an inspired performance as Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into presenting a workout series on television. Edged out thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying process known as "The Substance". This creates a youthful duplicate named Sue, culminating in a progressively vampiric relationship among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque story includes the talented actress as Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take a hiatus from writing about international wars to embark on a luxury cruise accompanied by a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other extremely wealthy individuals. But after an unknown lady falls into the sea one night and all passengers insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries with this innovative ghostly tale shot entirely from the perspective of a ghost. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their recent residence, the filming device – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of conscious of the ghostly being, and the entity appears defensive toward her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a self-obsessed Hollywood actor playing himself who agrees to a million-dollar gig to appear at a festive event in Mallorca for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the intelligence agency to spy on the alleged criminal, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's claustrophobic thriller holds up well despite the lack of a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has rendered the local kids anxious. When Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a dungeon, he fears the worst. Yet the old telephone on the wall repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for greed in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor acts as the greedy Jim, who states at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, yet the lead actress manages to present the character in a likable light. October 14th, 1.15am, on Film4
Black Bag
This period's additional entry 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 inside the organization from a group of five – including is his spouse. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mind game of deception or honesty develops. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
