Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary addresses the oppressive nature of female beauty along with the dreaded aspects of growing older. The veteran actress offers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity reduced to starring in an aerobics show on the small screen. Edged out thanks to her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying treatment called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a steadily more vampiric relationship among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit story features Keira Knightley playing Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take some time off from reporting on world issues to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich guests. However when an enigmatic female falls into the sea overnight and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Streaming currently, the Netflix platform
Presence
The acclaimed director challenges his film-making abilities with this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely from the perspective of the phantom. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of aware of the supernatural presence, and it looks like guarding her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor embraces his eccentric image through this meta comedy caper. He acts as an egotistical film star playing himself who accepts a lucrative offer to visit a celebration on the Spanish island for billionaire superfan Javi. Recruited by the CIA to gather intel on the potential kingpin, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well without requiring a continuation. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has left the local kids on edge. When Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he dreads a terrible outcome. Yet the disconnected phone mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with spooky callers offering help, as the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for greed in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the venal Jim, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals commence profiting from the people's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, though the lead actress achieves to present Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's second offering from the filmmaker is a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks sported by the actor's UK spy. His assignment is with uncovering a traitor inside the organization from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of understated style, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
