Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
Coralie Fargeat's daring critique addresses the oppressive nature of female beauty and the dreaded aspects of advancing years. The veteran actress presents a masterful portrayal playing Elisabeth, a mature film star reduced to presenting an aerobics show on television. Forced aside thanks to her slimy boss Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and horrifying treatment titled "The Substance". This generates a new version of herself called Sue, leading to a steadily more parasitic dynamic between the two. This Friday, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This suspenseful mystery stars Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for some time off from covering international wars to board a luxury cruise accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, and other filthy rich individuals. Yet once an enigmatic female falls into the sea overnight and the entire crew claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Out now, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities through this clever ghostly tale filmed completely from the perspective of the phantom. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the filming device – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of sensing the ghostly being, and it looks like guarding her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist you might not see coming. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Cage fully commits to his cult stardom in this self-referential adventure. He plays a narcissistic Hollywood actor called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to appear at a birthday party on the Spanish island for the wealthy superfan Javi. Contacted by the CIA to investigate the alleged criminal, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective without requiring a continuation. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, a series of child abductions has rendered the children anxious. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a basement, he fears a terrible outcome. However, the old telephone on the wall repeatedly calls, with spooky callers giving advice, as the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen might rescue him. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, late evening, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for greed in Michael Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation of the disgraced religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who declares early on, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about profiting from the nation's Christian beliefs. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, overdone appearance and hypocrisy, though Jessica Chastain manages to show the real-life figure with compassion. October 14th, early morning, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's second offering from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as sharp similar to the collars used by Michael Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked with uncovering a mole among the team out of five possibilities – among them is his spouse. The two stars are masters of calm composure, leading to a delightful psychological game of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
