Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's bold critique tackles the oppressive nature of female beauty and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore delivers an inspired performance in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into hosting a workout series on the small screen. Edged out by her deceitful superior her manager Harvey, she undergoes a secretive and terrifying procedure called "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate named Sue, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit mystery features Knightley playing Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take some time off from reporting on international wars to join an opulent ship with a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, plus additional filthy rich guests. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence Film
The acclaimed director pushes his creative boundaries with this innovative ghostly tale filmed completely from the perspective of the phantom. When a household including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their fresh home, the lens – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and it looks like guarding her. But why? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his eccentric image via this meta comedy caper. He portrays a narcissistic Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who takes on a million-dollar gig to visit a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, 9pm, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror holds up well without requiring a continuation. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of disappearances has rendered the youth frightened. After Finney is taken by the villain and held captive in a dungeon, he anticipates a fatal end. Yet the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators giving advice, and the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen might rescue him. An effective horror. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced religious broadcaster and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye begin monetising the people's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, however the lead actress succeeds to show the character in a likable light. Next Tuesday, early morning, Film4
The Spy Mystery
The current week's second offering by the same director is a intelligence thriller as sharp like the turtlenecks worn by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a mole among the team out of five possibilities – among them is his spouse. The two stars are masters of calm composure, so a delicious mental battle of fact versus fiction takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema
