Top Selection
The Substance
The filmmaker's daring critique tackles the oppressive nature of women's appearance as well as the perceived horrors of ageing. Demi Moore presents a masterful portrayal playing Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress forced into starring in a workout series on the small screen. Pushed out by her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying treatment called the Substance. This produces a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively vampiric relationship among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit thriller includes Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a break from reporting on world issues to join a luxury cruise alongside an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her spouse, as well as other filthy rich individuals. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard one night and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Available now, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh tests his directorial skills in this clever supernatural story filmed completely from the viewpoint of the phantom. When a household including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the lens – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and it looks like protective of her. But why? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, with a twist that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom via this meta comedy caper. He acts as an egotistical Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a lucrative offer to visit a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the intelligence agency to investigate the potential kingpin, Cage's unconventional method is put to the test. This Saturday, prime time, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective despite the lack of a follow-up. Set in the late 70s in Denver, a series of child abductions has made the youth on edge. Once Finney is taken by the villain and held captive in a cellar, he dreads the worst. But the disconnected phone on the wall repeatedly calls, with spooky callers giving advice, and the intuitive nightmares of Gwen, his sister could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, nighttime, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for greed in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky true story of the disgraced TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who states at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals commence monetising the nation's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and insincerity, yet Jessica Chastain manages to show Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
This Espionage Thriller
This week's another release by the same director is a spy mystery as precise as the polo necks worn by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a double agent among the team from five suspects – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are experts of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mind game of fact versus fiction develops. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
