Top Selection
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's daring commentary tackles the demanding standards for women's appearance and the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress presents a brilliant acting turn as Elisabeth, a mature celebrity reduced to starring in an aerobics show on TV. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, she seeks out an enigmatic and terrifying treatment known as the Substance. This generates a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in an increasingly toxic connection between them. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit story stars Keira Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who takes some time off from writing about global conflict to join a luxury cruise alongside a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, and other filthy rich guests. But after an unknown lady goes overboard one night and all passengers denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity take over. Available now, on Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries through this innovative paranormal narrative shot entirely from the perspective of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The daughter appears conscious of the ghostly being, 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. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor fully commits to his unique fame in this self-referential adventure. He plays a narcissistic film star named Nicolas Cage who takes on a lucrative offer to visit a birthday party on the Spanish island for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by government spies to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unconventional method is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, prime time, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
The director's locked-room horror stands strong despite the lack of a continuation. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, several disappearances has rendered the children anxious. When Finney gets captured by the villain and locked up in a basement, he fears a fatal end. However, the old telephone mounted nearby continues to ring, with spooky callers offering help, while the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, the Film4 channel
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed TV preacher and her felon spouse. The actor acts as the greedy Jim, who states early on, “God does not want us to be poor,”. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the nation's Christian beliefs. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, however Chastain manages to depict the character in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's second offering from the filmmaker is a spy mystery as precise as the polo necks used by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission to discover a mole within their ranks from five suspects – one of whom is his spouse. The two stars are masters of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
