Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching satire examines the tyranny of women's appearance and the feared consequences of advancing years. Demi Moore delivers an inspired portrayal as Elisabeth, a mature celebrity demoted to hosting a fitness program on the small screen. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to an enigmatic and horrifying treatment titled this experimental method. This generates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly vampiric relationship between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful mystery features the talented actress as Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take some time off from covering world issues to board a luxury cruise accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her husband, and other filthy rich guests. But after an unknown lady disappears from the ship overnight and the entire crew claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Out now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh challenges his directorial skills through this nifty supernatural story shot entirely from the perspective of a ghost. As a family including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the lens – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and it seems guarding her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage embraces his cult stardom in this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to appear at a birthday party in Mallorca for the rich superfan Javi. Hired by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong despite the lack of a sequel. Located in 1978 Denver, multiple disappearances has rendered the youth anxious. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a basement, he fears a fatal end. But the non-functional line in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators offering help, as the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, nighttime, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the struggle between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for materialism in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top true story regarding the shamed religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Garfield portrays the corrupt Bakker, who states early on, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about monetising the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and insincerity, yet Chastain manages to present the real-life figure in a likable light. October 14th, early morning, the Film4 channel
Black Bag
The current week's another release from the filmmaker presents a spy mystery as precise like the turtlenecks used by the actor's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to identify a double agent inside the organization from five suspects – among them is his spouse. Both actors are experts of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging psychological game of truth or lie develops. Additional actors join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, multiple time slots, the Sky channel
