Highlighted Choice
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's daring commentary tackles the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the feared consequences of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a brilliant performance playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old celebrity demoted to starring in a fitness program on television. Forced aside by her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to a mysterious and terrifying process called the Substance. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in a steadily more vampiric relationship between them. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful mystery includes the talented actress playing Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a hiatus from reporting on world issues to embark on an opulent ship accompanied by a terminally ill Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her husband, plus additional affluent passengers. But after an unknown lady falls into the sea during the evening and all passengers insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Out now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries through this innovative ghostly tale captured wholly from the viewpoint of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the filming device – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the supernatural presence, and the entity appears guarding her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, with a twist that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage embraces his cult stardom in this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a narcissistic Hollywood actor playing himself who agrees to a $1m payday to appear at a festive event in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the CIA to spy on the suspected cartel boss, his unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, evening, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong even without a sequel. Set in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has rendered the children anxious. After Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and held captive in a basement, he anticipates a fatal end. Yet the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, late evening, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for greed in this director's brilliantly over-the-top true story of the disgraced televangelist and her felon spouse. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, overdone appearance and insincerity, yet Jessica Chastain achieves to show Tammy Faye with compassion. October 14th, 1.15am, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's additional entry from the filmmaker delivers a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks used by the actor's British agent. He receives a mission to identify a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is his own wife. The two stars excel of understated style, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty develops. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, multiple time slots, Sky Cinema
