Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's unflinching critique tackles the oppressive nature of female beauty and the feared consequences of advancing years. Demi Moore offers a masterful performance in the role of Elisabeth, a mature celebrity reduced to presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Forced aside due to her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and horrifying treatment called "The Substance". This generates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in an increasingly toxic connection between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful story stars Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a hiatus from reporting on global conflict to board an opulent ship with a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and donor, her partner, as well as other extremely wealthy individuals. However when a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and all passengers claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries with this innovative paranormal narrative filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems conscious of the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame in this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical celebrity playing himself who accepts a million-dollar gig to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the CIA to gather intel on the potential kingpin, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. Saturday 11 October, prime time, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a continuation. Located in the late 70s in Denver, multiple kidnappings has made the local kids on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and held captive in a cellar, he fears a terrible outcome. But the old telephone mounted nearby keeps ringing, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. Saturday 11 October, late evening, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for greed in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield acts as the greedy Jim, who proclaims at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple begin monetising the American public's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of poor styling, bad makeup and insincerity, yet Chastain succeeds to present the character in a likable light. Next Tuesday, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This period's another release from the filmmaker presents a intelligence thriller as precise like the turtlenecks sported by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked to discover a mole within their ranks from five suspects – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty takes place. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
