Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's unflinching critique addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress delivers a masterful performance in the role of Elisabeth, an aging film star reduced to hosting a fitness program on television. Edged out due to her slimy boss Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and terrifying procedure called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself called Sue, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic between them. This Friday, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful thriller stars Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a hiatus from writing about international wars to board an opulent ship alongside a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her spouse, and other filthy rich guests. However when a mysterious woman falls into the sea overnight and everyone insists she wasn't real, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence
Steven Soderbergh pushes his film-making abilities through this clever supernatural story captured wholly through the eyes of a ghost. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the camera – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The daughter appears conscious of the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, with a twist that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his eccentric image through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays an egotistical film star called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to visit a birthday party in Mallorca for the wealthy superfan Javi. Contacted by government spies to investigate the alleged criminal, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. Saturday 11 October, evening, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a sequel. Set in the late 70s in Denver, several disappearances has rendered the children on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by the villain and imprisoned in a dungeon, he dreads a fatal end. However, the non-functional line on the wall repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic of the disgraced televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who states early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple set about monetising the American public's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, yet the lead actress succeeds to depict the character in a likable light. Next Tuesday, early morning, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh delivers a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks sported by the actor's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to discover a mole among the team from a group of five – one of whom is his spouse. Each performer excel of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of deception or honesty takes place. Additional actors participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
