Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's bold critique examines the oppressive nature of women's appearance and the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress presents a brilliant portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity reduced to presenting a fitness program on TV. Pushed out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she turns to an enigmatic and terrifying procedure known as the Substance. This generates a youthful duplicate called Sue, culminating in a steadily more toxic connection between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit story stars Keira Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who takes some time off from covering international wars to join a luxury cruise with an ailing wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other extremely wealthy guests. Yet once an unknown lady falls into the sea during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Streaming currently, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries with this clever paranormal narrative filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. After a clan with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their recent residence, the filming device – AKA the Presence – follows them around. The teen shows signs of aware of the poltergeist, and it looks like guarding her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor embraces his eccentric image through this self-referential adventure. He plays an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for billionaire superfan Javi. Hired by the CIA to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong even without a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of disappearances has made the children on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he anticipates a terrible outcome. But the disconnected phone on the wall keeps ringing, with ghostly voices providing assistance, as the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, nighttime, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced televangelist and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye begin profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, yet the lead actress succeeds to depict the real-life figure in a likable light. Next Tuesday, early morning, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks sported by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a traitor among the team from five suspects – among them is his own wife. Both actors are masters of calm composure, leading to a delightful mind game of truth or lie takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
