Highlighted Choice
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's daring satire tackles the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics as well as the perceived horrors of advancing years. The veteran actress delivers an inspired performance as Elisabeth, an aging film star forced into hosting a workout series on TV. Edged out by her slimy boss Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and terrifying process titled the Substance. This generates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between the two. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This suspenseful thriller stars Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a hiatus from covering international wars to embark on a luxury cruise alongside a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and philanthropist, her spouse, plus additional extremely wealthy passengers. Yet once an enigmatic female disappears from the ship during the evening and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries in this innovative paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of a ghost. After a clan including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe settles into their fresh home, the filming device – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The daughter appears conscious of the supernatural presence, and it seems guarding her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, with a twist that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a narcissistic film star playing himself who accepts a million-dollar gig to attend a festive event on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the CIA to gather intel on the alleged criminal, his unique performing skills comes in handy. This Saturday, prime time, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone Horror
The director's locked-room horror holds up well even without a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has left the local kids on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by the villain and imprisoned in a dungeon, he fears the worst. But the old telephone in the room keeps ringing, with eerie communicators providing assistance, while the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, late evening, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between God and Mammon, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation of the disgraced televangelist and her criminal husband. The actor portrays the venal Jim, who declares initially, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple commence profiting from the American public's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, yet the lead actress succeeds to show the character with compassion. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4
Black Bag
This period's another release from Steven Soderbergh is a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks used by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked with uncovering a traitor among the team out of five possibilities – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors are masters of calm composure, so a delicious mind game of deception or honesty develops. The supporting cast join in the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema