Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary examines the tyranny of female beauty along with the feared consequences of growing older. The veteran actress offers a masterful performance playing Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into presenting a workout series on TV. Edged out thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying treatment titled the Substance. This creates a new version of herself named Sue, leading to an increasingly toxic connection between them. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful mystery includes Keira Knightley playing Laura, an ace reporter who takes a break from reporting on international wars to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her spouse, and other filthy rich individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman disappears from the ship one night and everyone denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director challenges his creative boundaries in this innovative ghostly tale captured wholly from the perspective of a ghost. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the filming device – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and it seems protective of her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom via this self-referential adventure. He acts as an egotistical Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, 9pm, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's locked-room horror holds up well even without a sequel. Located in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has left the youth on edge. When Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a dungeon, he fears a fatal end. However, the old telephone in the room repeatedly calls, with spooky callers offering help, as the prophetic visions of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for materialism in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story of the disgraced religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. The couple begin profiting from the people's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, overdone appearance and bad faith, yet Chastain manages to present the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4
Black Bag
This week's second offering from the filmmaker presents a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks used by the actor's UK spy. He receives a mission with uncovering a mole among the team from five suspects – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer excel of calm composure, leading to a delightful psychological game of deception or honesty unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
