Top Selection
This Satirical Thriller
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary examines the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a masterful performance playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress reduced to starring in a fitness program on the small screen. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and horrifying treatment called "The Substance". This produces a younger clone called Sue, culminating in a steadily more toxic connection between the two. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes the talented actress playing Laura, an ace reporter who takes a hiatus from reporting on world issues to embark on a luxury cruise alongside a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, plus additional filthy rich guests. But after an unknown lady disappears from the ship overnight and everyone denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity awaken. Out now, Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries in this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – representing the ghost – follows them around. Chloe seems sensing the supernatural presence, and it seems guarding her. But why? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage embraces his eccentric image through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to attend a celebration on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to spy on the potential kingpin, his unconventional method proves useful. October 11th, evening, Channel 4
The Black Phone
The director's claustrophobic thriller holds up well without requiring a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, multiple kidnappings has made the children on edge. When Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and held captive in a dungeon, he dreads the worst. However, the disconnected phone on the wall repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story regarding the shamed televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple commence profiting from the American public's religious faith. It's a riot of poor styling, overdone appearance and insincerity, though the lead actress succeeds to depict Tammy Faye in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
The current week's second offering from the filmmaker presents a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks worn by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked to discover a traitor among the team from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are experts of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of fact versus fiction takes place. The supporting cast participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
