Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary examines the demanding standards for female beauty and the feared consequences of growing older. The veteran actress offers a masterful acting turn playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress reduced to presenting a workout series on the small screen. Edged out thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and horrifying process titled "The Substance". This generates a younger clone called Sue, resulting in a steadily more vampiric relationship between the two. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit thriller stars the talented actress in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take some time off from writing about global conflict to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and charitable figure, her partner, plus additional affluent guests. Yet once an unknown lady goes overboard one night and everyone denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director tests his film-making abilities in this innovative supernatural story filmed completely from the perspective of the spirit. When a household featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems sensing the poltergeist, and it looks like protective of her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom via this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a lucrative offer to visit a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a continuation. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, several disappearances has rendered the youth frightened. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and locked up in a basement, he anticipates a terrible outcome. However, the non-functional line in the room keeps ringing, with spooky callers offering help, and the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for Mammon in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky true story about the fallen religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield portrays the venal Jim, who states at the beginning, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple commence monetising the American public's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, yet the lead actress manages to depict the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's another release from the filmmaker delivers a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks worn by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked to identify a mole inside the organization from five suspects – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are experts of deadpan cool, so a delicious mental battle of deception or honesty unfolds. Additional actors take part the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, various showings, the Sky channel
