Prime Small Screen Selections: Seven Can't-Miss Motion Pictures In the Days Ahead
Pick of the Week
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching satire examines the tyranny of female beauty as well as the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress presents a brilliant portrayal as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star reduced to starring in a fitness program on TV. Forced aside thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a secretive and gruesome treatment called the Substance. This generates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, resulting in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between the two. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes the talented actress in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who takes some time off from writing about global conflict to embark on an opulent ship alongside a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her partner, and other extremely wealthy individuals. But after a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Streaming currently, on Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh pushes his directorial skills through this nifty paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of the phantom. After a clan including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of aware of the poltergeist, and it seems guarding her. However, the motive remains? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor fully commits to his cult stardom via this self-referential adventure. He portrays an egotistical Hollywood actor called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to appear at a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Recruited by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his unconventional method proves useful. This Saturday, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong even without a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, multiple disappearances has rendered the children frightened. When Finney gets captured by the kidnapper and imprisoned in a cellar, he anticipates a fatal end. But the old telephone in the room keeps ringing, with ghostly voices offering help, as the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen could save him. An effective horror. This Saturday, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for greed in Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the corrupt Bakker, who declares initially, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye set about monetising the people's religious faith. It's a riot of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, though the lead actress manages to depict Tammy Faye with compassion. October 14th, early morning, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks sported by the actor's UK spy. He is tasked to discover a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – one of whom is his own wife. The two stars are masters of calm composure, resulting in an engaging psychological game of truth or lie takes place. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, the Sky channel
