Prime Television Choices: Seven Essential Movies This Week
Highlighted Choice
The Substance Film
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold satire tackles the demanding standards for feminine aesthetics and the dreaded aspects of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents an inspired portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a mature celebrity reduced to starring in a fitness program on television. Edged out due to her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a secretive and terrifying process called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself named Sue, leading to a progressively toxic connection among both women. Friday 17 October, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes the talented actress as Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for some time off from reporting on world issues to board a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her husband, and other extremely wealthy guests. But after an unknown lady goes overboard one night and the entire crew insists she wasn't real, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Streaming currently, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director challenges his directorial skills with this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of a ghost. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. Chloe seems sensing the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image in this meta comedy caper. He portrays a self-obsessed film star named Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to visit a celebration in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by the CIA to gather intel on the alleged criminal, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. Saturday 11 October, evening, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective even without a sequel. Located in the late 70s in Denver, multiple kidnappings has made the children anxious. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and locked up in a cellar, he dreads the worst. Yet the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between spirituality and money, the victory is clear for greed in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish true story about the fallen religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the venal Jim, who proclaims early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye commence monetising the American public's Christian beliefs. It's a riot of bad interior design, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, however the lead actress achieves to show the real-life figure in a likable light. Next Tuesday, late night, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This period's second offering from the filmmaker presents a espionage tale as tight as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked to discover a double agent among the team from five suspects – including is his spouse. Both actors excel of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging psychological game of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast join in the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
