Top Selection
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary tackles the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the perceived horrors of growing older. Demi Moore delivers a masterful acting turn as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress reduced to presenting a workout series on television. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and gruesome procedure known as "The Substance". This creates a youthful duplicate portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a steadily more toxic connection between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful story includes Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take a hiatus from writing about world issues to join a high-end voyage accompanied by a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her spouse, as well as other extremely wealthy passengers. Yet once a mysterious woman falls into the sea overnight and the entire crew denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities with this clever supernatural story shot entirely through the eyes of the spirit. As a family including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their recent residence, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The daughter appears conscious of the supernatural presence, and it looks like guarding 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
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his eccentric image in this autobiographical spoof. He plays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a lucrative offer to visit a birthday party on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the intelligence agency to spy on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. October 11th, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well despite the lack of a sequel. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has made the children anxious. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and held captive in a basement, he dreads a terrible outcome. Yet the disconnected phone mounted nearby keeps ringing, with ghostly voices providing assistance, and the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals set about profiting from the people's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, though the lead actress achieves to present the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, Film4
The Spy Mystery
The current week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is to discover a mole among the team out of five possibilities – among them is his spouse. The two stars are experts of understated style, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
