Top Selection
The Substance Film
Coralie Fargeat's bold satire examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics as well as the feared consequences of advancing years. The veteran actress offers an inspired portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star demoted to starring in a workout series on TV. Pushed out by her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and horrifying treatment called "The Substance". This generates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic between them. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit thriller stars Keira Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who opts for some time off from reporting on global conflict to board a high-end voyage with an ailing wealthy inheritor and charitable figure, her spouse, plus additional affluent guests. But after an enigmatic female disappears from the ship during the evening and all passengers denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Available now, Netflix
Presence Film
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities in this clever paranormal narrative filmed completely through the eyes of a ghost. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of conscious of the poltergeist, and the entity appears defensive toward her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom via this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical celebrity playing himself who accepts a lucrative offer to appear at a festive event in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to investigate the alleged criminal, the actor's unconventional method comes in handy. This Saturday, 9pm, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has made the children on edge. When Finney is taken by the villain and locked up in a dungeon, he fears a terrible outcome. However, the disconnected phone in the room continues to ring, with spooky callers giving advice, while the prescient dreams from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for materialism in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story of the disgraced televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple set about monetising the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, yet Chastain manages to depict Tammy Faye in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh is a espionage tale as tight as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to identify a double agent among the team out of five possibilities – including is his own wife. Each performer are masters of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of deception or honesty develops. Additional actors take part the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
