Highlighted Choice
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's bold critique examines the demanding standards for women's appearance along with the perceived horrors of growing older. Demi Moore offers a masterful performance as Elisabeth, a mature film star reduced to starring in an aerobics show on the small screen. Pushed out due to her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying treatment called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself called Sue, leading to a progressively vampiric relationship between the two. October 17th, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit thriller features Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a hiatus from reporting on global conflict to join an opulent ship alongside a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her spouse, plus additional filthy rich passengers. However when an unknown lady falls into the sea during the evening and all passengers denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Available now, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries in this clever supernatural story filmed completely from the viewpoint of a ghost. When a household including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe moves into their recent residence, the camera – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of sensing the supernatural presence, and it looks like protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame via this self-referential adventure. He plays a narcissistic celebrity playing himself who accepts a $1m payday to visit a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy superfan Javi. Contacted by the CIA to spy on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong even without a sequel. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of disappearances has made the local kids on edge. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a dungeon, he dreads a fatal end. However, the disconnected phone mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices offering help, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister could save him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced televangelist and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states initially, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about monetising the people's religious faith. It's a riot of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, yet the lead actress manages to depict Tammy Faye in a likable light. October 14th, late night, Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks worn by the actor's intelligence officer. He is tasked with uncovering a double agent inside the organization from five suspects – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors are masters of understated style, resulting in an engaging psychological game of deception or honesty takes place. Additional actors join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema Premiere
