Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold commentary examines the tyranny of women's appearance and the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress delivers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into presenting an aerobics show on TV. Forced aside thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and gruesome procedure called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively toxic connection between the two. This Friday, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit thriller features Keira Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who takes a hiatus from reporting on international wars to board a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her partner, plus additional filthy rich individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman disappears from the ship one night and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Out now, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director tests his directorial skills with this innovative ghostly tale shot entirely from the perspective of the phantom. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of conscious of the ghostly being, and the entity appears guarding her. But why? It's a fun idea that remains concise, with a twist that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor fully commits to his eccentric image in this autobiographical spoof. He portrays an egotistical film star playing himself who agrees to a million-dollar gig to appear at a festive event in Mallorca for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by government spies to investigate the alleged criminal, Cage's unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a follow-up. Located in the late 70s in Denver, several child abductions has made the children frightened. Once Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a dungeon, he fears a fatal end. But the old telephone on the wall continues to ring, with spooky callers giving advice, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in this director's brilliantly over-the-top true story of the disgraced TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims at the beginning, “God does not want us to be poor,”. Both individuals begin profiting from the nation's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and insincerity, yet the lead actress achieves to present the real-life figure with compassion. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a spy mystery as precise similar to the collars worn by Fassbender's British agent. He receives a mission to identify a double agent inside the organization out of five possibilities – including is his spouse. The two stars excel of understated style, resulting in an engaging psychological game of deception or honesty unfolds. Additional actors participate the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
