Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary tackles the demanding standards for female beauty along with the dreaded aspects of advancing years. Demi Moore delivers a masterful performance in the role of Elisabeth, a mature film star reduced to hosting a workout series on the small screen. Forced aside by her deceitful superior her manager Harvey, she seeks out a secretive and horrifying treatment known as "The Substance". This generates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in an increasingly toxic connection between the two. This Friday, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit story stars the talented actress playing Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from writing about international wars to join a luxury cruise accompanied by an ailing Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her partner, and other filthy rich guests. However when a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Available now, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh tests his directorial skills with this nifty paranormal narrative captured wholly from the viewpoint of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and it seems protective of her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage embraces his unique fame via this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical film star called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a lucrative offer to visit a festive event on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to spy on the alleged criminal, Cage's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, evening, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's contained scarefest holds up well without requiring a sequel. Located in the late 70s in Denver, multiple kidnappings has rendered the children anxious. After Finney is taken by the villain and imprisoned in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. However, the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with ghostly voices offering help, as the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen TV preacher and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who states at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple set about capitalizing on the nation's religious faith. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, overdone appearance and insincerity, though Chastain achieves to depict the character as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, Film4
Black Bag
The current week's second offering by the same director presents a spy mystery as precise as the polo necks sported by Michael Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission with uncovering a double agent among the team from a group of five – one of whom is his own wife. Both actors are experts of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of fact versus fiction unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
