Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring satire addresses the tyranny of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress presents an inspired portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress demoted to hosting a workout series on the small screen. Edged out due to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out an enigmatic and gruesome process titled the Substance. This creates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in a steadily more toxic connection between the two. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes the talented actress as Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from writing about global conflict to board an opulent ship with an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich passengers. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and everyone claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Out now, Netflix
Presence Film
Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills through this clever supernatural story shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of sensing the poltergeist, and the entity appears protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage fully commits to his unique fame via this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical celebrity playing himself who accepts a $1m payday to attend a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
The director's locked-room horror stands strong despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in 1978 Denver, a series of kidnappings has left the children frightened. Once Finney is kidnapped by the villain and locked up in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. However, the old telephone on the wall keeps ringing, with ghostly voices giving advice, as the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister could save him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for greed in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky true story of the disgraced religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield acts as the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about monetising the American public's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, yet the lead actress achieves to present the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, early morning, Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's second offering by the same director presents a intelligence thriller as sharp similar to the collars worn by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked to identify a mole within their ranks from five suspects – among them is his spouse. The two stars are masters of understated style, so a delicious psychological game of deception or honesty unfolds. Additional actors participate the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
