Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching commentary examines the tyranny of women's appearance along with the feared consequences of advancing years. The veteran actress delivers a masterful performance playing Elisabeth, an aging actress forced into presenting a fitness program on the small screen. Forced aside by her unscrupulous employer her manager Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying process titled "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate called Sue, leading to a progressively vampiric relationship between the two. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery features the talented actress playing Laura, a top-notch writer who takes some time off from covering world issues to board a luxury cruise accompanied by a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her partner, as well as other affluent individuals. However when a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and everyone denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Out now, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills with this nifty supernatural story captured wholly through the eyes of the spirit. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and it looks like protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor embraces his cult stardom in this autobiographical spoof. He plays an egotistical celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a million-dollar gig to attend a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy superfan Javi. Hired by government spies to spy on the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills is put to the test. This Saturday, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective without requiring a sequel. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, multiple disappearances has made the children on edge. Once Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a basement, he anticipates a terrible outcome. Yet the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with ghostly voices providing assistance, and the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, on Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for greed in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. The actor acts as the venal Jim, who proclaims at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals commence profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, however the lead actress manages to show the character as a sympathetic figure. October 14th, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh presents a espionage tale as sharp as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission to discover a traitor among the team from five suspects – one of whom is his own wife. Both actors excel of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging mind game of deception or honesty unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, various showings, the Sky channel
