Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold critique examines the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics as well as the perceived horrors of ageing. Demi Moore presents a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity reduced to hosting an aerobics show on the small screen. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she turns to a secretive and terrifying treatment titled this experimental method. This creates a youthful duplicate portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a progressively toxic connection among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful mystery includes the talented actress in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who takes a hiatus from reporting on world issues to board a high-end voyage alongside an ailing wealthy inheritor and donor, her partner, plus additional affluent guests. Yet once an enigmatic female goes overboard overnight and everyone insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries in this nifty paranormal narrative shot entirely from the perspective of the spirit. When a household featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their recent residence, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The daughter appears aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that remains concise, including a revelation that may be unexpected. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Cage embraces his unique fame through this self-referential adventure. He portrays an egotistical Hollywood actor playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to appear at a festive event on the Spanish island for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to spy on the alleged criminal, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's contained scarefest holds up well even without a sequel. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of disappearances has made the youth frightened. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a dungeon, he fears the worst. However, the non-functional line on the wall keeps ringing, with spooky callers offering help, and the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. October 11th, late evening, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for Mammon in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who states at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about monetising the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though Jessica Chastain manages to show the character in a likable light. October 14th, 1.15am, Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's second offering by the same director delivers a espionage tale as precise like the turtlenecks used by Michael Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked with uncovering a mole within their ranks from five suspects – one of whom is his own wife. The two stars are masters of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mind game of truth or lie takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
