Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching critique addresses the oppressive nature of women's appearance as well as the feared consequences of growing older. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a masterful performance in the role of Elisabeth, an aging celebrity demoted to starring in a fitness program on television. Edged out by her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she undergoes a secretive and terrifying treatment called "The Substance". This produces a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively toxic connection between the two. October 17th, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit thriller features Knightley playing Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a break from reporting on global conflict to board an opulent ship with an ailing wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her partner, plus additional filthy rich guests. Yet once an unknown lady falls into the sea one night and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Out now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries in this clever supernatural story shot entirely from the perspective of the spirit. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their recent residence, the filming device – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems conscious of the poltergeist, and it looks like guarding her. However, the motive remains? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor fully commits to his cult stardom through this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to attend a birthday party on the Spanish island for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by government spies to investigate the potential kingpin, his unconventional method comes in handy. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well even without a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has left the youth frightened. After Finney is kidnapped by “the Grabber” and locked up in a cellar, he dreads the worst. But the non-functional line mounted nearby keeps ringing, with spooky callers offering help, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's delightfully tacky film adaptation regarding the shamed TV preacher and her felon spouse. Garfield portrays the greedy Jim, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the nation's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and insincerity, though Chastain achieves to show the real-life figure with compassion. October 14th, 1.15am, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
This period's second offering by the same director delivers a intelligence thriller as tight similar to the collars worn by Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is to discover a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is his own wife. Each performer excel of calm composure, leading to a delightful mental battle of truth or lie takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
