Pick of the Week
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's unflinching critique addresses the tyranny of women's appearance and the dreaded aspects of growing older. The veteran actress presents a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature celebrity reduced to hosting an aerobics show on the small screen. Forced aside thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying treatment known as the Substance. This creates a younger clone named Sue, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery stars the talented actress in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who takes a hiatus from writing about international wars to embark on a luxury cruise with a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, plus additional extremely wealthy guests. Yet once an unknown lady falls into the sea during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Available now, on Netflix
Presence Film
Soderbergh tests his directorial skills through this clever ghostly tale filmed completely through the eyes of the spirit. After a clan with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – representing the ghost – follows them around. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and it seems guarding her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that remains concise, including a revelation you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image in this self-referential adventure. He acts as a self-obsessed film star playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to attend a celebration on the Spanish island for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the alleged criminal, the actor's unconventional method comes in handy. October 11th, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective even without a follow-up. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of disappearances has left the local kids anxious. When Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a basement, he fears a terrible outcome. Yet the non-functional line mounted nearby repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister could save him. A genuinely scary movie. This Saturday, 10.50pm, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for Mammon in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. Both individuals begin monetising the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, overdone appearance and insincerity, however Jessica Chastain succeeds to depict Tammy Faye in a likable light. October 14th, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
This week's another release from the filmmaker is a intelligence thriller as precise like the turtlenecks used by the actor's intelligence officer. His assignment is to discover a traitor within their ranks out of five possibilities – including is his own wife. Both actors excel of deadpan cool, so a delicious mental battle of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere