Highlighted Choice
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's daring commentary examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress delivers an inspired performance in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star reduced to hosting a workout series on television. Forced aside due to her deceitful superior her manager Harvey, she seeks out a secretive and terrifying treatment called the Substance. This produces a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic among both women. This Friday, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque story stars Knightley as Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for a break from covering global conflict to join a high-end voyage alongside a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich individuals. Yet once an enigmatic female goes overboard during the evening and everyone denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries with this clever paranormal narrative captured wholly from the perspective 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. Chloe seems conscious of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. However, the motive remains? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor fully commits to his unique fame through this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic Hollywood actor called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to attend a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to spy on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unconventional method proves useful. Saturday 11 October, evening, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller stands strong even without a sequel. Located in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has rendered the children on edge. When Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and locked up in a dungeon, he fears the worst. But the old telephone in the room keeps ringing, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen could save him. A genuinely scary movie. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for Mammon in Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who states early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye commence profiting from the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of poor styling, bad makeup and insincerity, however the lead actress manages to show Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. October 14th, late night, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh presents a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks sported by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a double agent within their ranks from five suspects – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty takes place. The supporting cast take part the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, various showings, the Sky channel
