Top Selection
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique examines the oppressive nature of women's appearance as well as the feared consequences of growing older. The veteran actress presents a brilliant performance in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress reduced to hosting a fitness program on the small screen. Edged out due to her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she undergoes a secretive and terrifying treatment called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic between the two. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful thriller includes Knightley as Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for some time off from reporting on global conflict to embark on a luxury cruise with a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her partner, and other extremely wealthy guests. Yet once a mysterious woman disappears from the ship during the evening and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
The acclaimed director challenges his film-making abilities in this nifty ghostly tale filmed completely from the perspective of a ghost. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their recent residence, the filming device – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears defensive toward her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, with a twist that could catch you off guard. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image in this self-referential adventure. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to attend a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's contained scarefest holds up well without requiring a continuation. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has rendered the youth anxious. Once Finney gets captured by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. However, the old telephone on the wall repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices providing assistance, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for Mammon in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic regarding the shamed televangelist and her felon spouse. Garfield plays the venal Jim, who declares initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple set about monetising the people's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though Chastain manages to present Tammy Faye in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh presents a spy mystery as tight similar to the collars worn by the actor's UK spy. His assignment is with uncovering a mole among the team from a group of five – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors are masters of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty develops. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
