Finest Television Selections: Seven Essential Motion Pictures This Week
Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring satire examines the demanding standards for women's appearance as well as the perceived horrors of advancing years. The veteran actress offers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging film star reduced to presenting an aerobics show on the small screen. Edged out thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she seeks out an enigmatic and gruesome process called "The Substance". This generates a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in an increasingly vampiric relationship among both women. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery stars Keira Knightley playing Laura, a top-notch writer who takes some time off from reporting on global conflict to join a luxury cruise alongside an ailing wealthy inheritor and donor, her husband, and other filthy rich individuals. But after an unknown lady disappears from the ship overnight and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Out now, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries with this innovative supernatural story filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their fresh home, the lens – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of aware of the poltergeist, and the entity appears protective of her. But why? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. October 11th, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage embraces his eccentric image via this self-referential adventure. He portrays a narcissistic film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to visit a birthday party on the Spanish island for the rich Javi Gutierrez. Recruited by government spies to gather intel on the suspected cartel boss, his unique performing skills proves useful. This Saturday, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well without requiring a continuation. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has rendered the children anxious. When Finney is kidnapped by the villain and held captive in a cellar, he anticipates a fatal end. Yet the disconnected phone mounted nearby continues to ring, with spooky callers offering help, as the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen televangelist and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye begin capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, overdone appearance and insincerity, yet Jessica Chastain achieves to show the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, on Film4
Black Bag
This period's second offering from the filmmaker delivers a espionage tale as sharp like the turtlenecks used by the actor's British agent. He is tasked to discover a mole within their ranks from a group of five – including is his spouse. Each performer are masters of understated style, resulting in an engaging psychological game of deception or honesty unfolds. The supporting cast take part the clever spy entertainment. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
