Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
Coralie Fargeat's bold critique examines the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress delivers a masterful acting turn playing Elisabeth, an aging actress demoted to presenting a fitness program on television. Forced aside by her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and gruesome procedure titled the Substance. This produces a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in an increasingly toxic connection among both women. October 17th, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit story includes the talented actress playing Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take some time off from covering international wars to embark on a high-end voyage with an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her partner, as well as other extremely wealthy passengers. But after an enigmatic female falls into the sea one night and all passengers denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
The acclaimed director challenges his creative boundaries in this innovative supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the filming device – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems conscious of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears guarding her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage embraces his cult stardom via this self-referential adventure. He portrays an egotistical film star playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to attend a birthday party in Mallorca for the rich superfan Javi. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the potential kingpin, his unconventional method proves useful. October 11th, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well even without a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, multiple kidnappings has rendered the youth frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and locked up in a basement, he fears a fatal end. However, the old telephone in the room repeatedly calls, with spooky callers providing assistance, while the prescient dreams from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for greed in Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic about the fallen TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the greedy Jim, who states initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye begin monetising the people's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though the lead actress manages to show Tammy Faye in a likable light. October 14th, late night, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
The current week's second offering from the filmmaker is a espionage tale as precise similar to the collars used by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked to identify a mole among the team from a group of five – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars excel of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mind game of fact versus fiction takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
