Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique tackles the oppressive nature of women's appearance along with the dreaded aspects of growing older. The veteran actress delivers an inspired acting turn as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to starring in a workout series on television. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and horrifying treatment called "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in a progressively vampiric relationship among both women. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful thriller features Knightley playing Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take a hiatus from writing about global conflict to embark on an opulent ship with an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her spouse, plus additional extremely wealthy guests. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard during the evening and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Out now, Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director pushes his directorial skills through this innovative paranormal narrative filmed completely from the perspective of a ghost. As a family 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 teen shows signs of sensing the poltergeist, and it seems guarding her. However, the motive remains? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this autobiographical spoof. He plays an egotistical celebrity playing himself who takes on a million-dollar gig to appear at a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by government spies to investigate the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills is put to the test. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a sequel. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has left the local kids on edge. When Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and locked up in a cellar, he fears the worst. However, the old telephone in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation about the fallen religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who proclaims initially, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye commence capitalizing on the people's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and bad faith, however Jessica Chastain achieves to depict the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's another release from Steven Soderbergh presents a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks worn by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is with uncovering a traitor among the team from five suspects – including is his spouse. Both actors are masters of understated style, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie takes place. The supporting cast join in the clever spy entertainment. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
