Top Selection
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary tackles the oppressive nature of women's appearance and the dreaded aspects of ageing. The veteran actress presents an inspired performance as Elisabeth, a mature film star demoted to presenting an aerobics show on TV. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying process titled "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself called Sue, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This classic whodunit thriller includes Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who takes some time off from writing about international wars to embark on an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her partner, and other filthy rich passengers. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and all passengers insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities in this innovative ghostly tale shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their fresh home, the lens – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of sensing the ghostly being, and it seems defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that remains concise, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage fully commits to his cult stardom in this autobiographical spoof. He plays a narcissistic Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to appear at a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. Saturday 11 October, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's contained scarefest stands strong without requiring a continuation. Located in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has rendered the youth on edge. When Finney is taken by the kidnapper and held captive in a cellar, he anticipates the worst. However, the old telephone on the wall keeps ringing, with ghostly voices offering help, while the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. This Saturday, nighttime, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for greed in Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic of the disgraced religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. The actor acts as the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple set about monetising the people's religious faith. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, bad makeup and insincerity, however the lead actress succeeds to present the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a espionage tale as tight as the polo necks worn by the actor's intelligence officer. He is tasked to identify a double agent inside the organization from five suspects – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast participate the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
