Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's daring commentary tackles the demanding standards for women's appearance along with the dreaded aspects of ageing. The veteran actress delivers an inspired portrayal as Elisabeth, a mature celebrity reduced to presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Edged out by her deceitful superior Harvey, she turns to a secretive and gruesome treatment titled "The Substance". This creates a younger clone named Sue, culminating in an increasingly toxic connection between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful thriller includes the talented actress as Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for a hiatus from reporting on world issues to board a high-end voyage alongside an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, and other affluent guests. But after a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and the entire crew claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Streaming currently, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills in this clever paranormal narrative filmed completely from the perspective of a ghost. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their fresh home, the camera – as the unseen entity – follows them around. The daughter appears aware of the poltergeist, and it looks like guarding her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist you might not see coming. This Saturday, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor fully commits to his eccentric image through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a birthday party in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
The director's locked-room horror holds up well even without a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, several disappearances has rendered the youth on edge. Once Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he dreads the worst. But the old telephone on the wall repeatedly calls, with spooky callers giving advice, and the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for Mammon in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky true story regarding the shamed televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor acts as the greedy Jim, who proclaims early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals begin capitalizing on the American public's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, however the lead actress manages to show the real-life figure with compassion. Next Tuesday, late night, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's another release by the same director is a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's British agent. His assignment is to identify a traitor among the team from five suspects – among them is his own wife. The two stars excel of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
