Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold critique examines the oppressive nature of women's appearance along with the feared consequences of advancing years. The veteran actress offers an inspired acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress demoted to starring in a workout series on television. Forced aside thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying procedure titled the Substance. This produces a new version of herself called Sue, leading to a steadily more vampiric relationship between them. This Friday, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for some time off from reporting on world issues to embark on a luxury cruise accompanied by an ailing wealthy inheritor and donor, her partner, as well as other filthy rich passengers. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and everyone insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities with this nifty supernatural story shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe moves into their fresh home, the lens – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The daughter appears conscious of the ghostly being, and it looks like protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor embraces his eccentric image via this self-referential adventure. He acts as a self-obsessed Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to visit a festive event in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone Horror
The director's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a continuation. Located in the late 70s in Denver, several disappearances has rendered the local kids on edge. After Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and held captive in a dungeon, he anticipates a terrible outcome. Yet the non-functional line in the room repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices offering help, while the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for Mammon in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story about the fallen televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield portrays the greedy Jim, who proclaims early on, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals begin monetising the American public's religious faith. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, however Chastain manages to depict the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, late night, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh is a intelligence thriller as sharp as the polo necks worn by Michael Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked to discover a traitor among the team from five suspects – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mental battle of fact versus fiction unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
