Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's daring critique examines the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress presents a masterful portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, an aging celebrity reduced to starring in a fitness program on the small screen. Pushed out thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, she seeks out an enigmatic and horrifying treatment called the Substance. This produces a younger clone called Sue, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque story features Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for a break from reporting on world issues to board a high-end voyage accompanied by an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, plus additional affluent individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman falls into the sea one night and the entire crew denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Available now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
The acclaimed director challenges his directorial skills in this clever supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. The daughter appears aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears guarding her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, with a twist that could catch you off guard. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his eccentric image through this meta comedy caper. He acts as a self-obsessed film star called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to attend a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the CIA to investigate the potential kingpin, his unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, evening, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong without requiring a continuation. Set in 1970s Colorado, several child abductions has rendered the youth frightened. After Finney gets captured by the kidnapper and locked up in a cellar, he fears the worst. But the old telephone in the room keeps ringing, with eerie communicators offering help, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for Mammon in this director's wonderfully garish true story of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals begin monetising the people's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of poor styling, overdone appearance and bad faith, however Jessica Chastain manages to depict the character as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, late night, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a intelligence thriller as sharp like the turtlenecks sported by Fassbender's British agent. He receives a mission with uncovering a mole among the team from five suspects – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are masters of understated style, resulting in an engaging psychological game of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast participate the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
