Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching satire tackles the tyranny of women's appearance as well as the dreaded aspects of advancing years. The veteran actress presents a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging actress reduced to starring in a workout series on TV. Edged out by her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she undergoes a secretive and horrifying process titled "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate named Sue, leading to an increasingly toxic connection among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful mystery includes the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from writing about world issues to embark on a luxury cruise with an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other affluent guests. But after an enigmatic female goes overboard during the evening and everyone insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Streaming currently, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities in this innovative ghostly tale shot entirely from the perspective of the phantom. When a household including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the filming device – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of aware of the poltergeist, and it seems defensive toward her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, with a twist you might not see coming. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage embraces his eccentric image in this autobiographical spoof. He plays a self-obsessed film star playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the rich superfan Javi. Recruited by the intelligence agency to spy on the suspected cartel boss, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
The director's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of disappearances has rendered the youth on edge. Once Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a cellar, he fears the worst. But the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. The actor portrays the venal Jim, who declares initially, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals commence monetising the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though the lead actress succeeds to present the real-life figure with compassion. October 14th, 1.15am, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from the filmmaker presents a espionage tale as precise similar to the collars worn by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a double agent inside the organization out of five possibilities – including is his spouse. The two stars are experts of understated style, leading to a delightful psychological game of fact versus fiction unfolds. The supporting cast participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, multiple time slots, the Sky channel
