Top TV Choices: 7 Must-Watch Movies This Coming Week
Pick of the Week
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold critique tackles the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress delivers a brilliant acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, an aging film star demoted to presenting a workout series on the small screen. Edged out thanks to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and horrifying treatment known as the Substance. This generates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in an increasingly vampiric relationship among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery includes the talented actress in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from reporting on world issues to embark on an opulent ship with a terminally ill Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her husband, and other filthy rich guests. But after an unknown lady goes overboard one night and everyone insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts kick in. Available now, Netflix
Presence Film
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries with this innovative ghostly tale filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. When a household including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe moves into their new suburban house, the lens – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and it looks like guarding her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
Cage fully commits to his eccentric image through this meta comedy caper. He plays an egotistical celebrity named Nicolas Cage who takes on a million-dollar gig to appear at a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the intelligence agency to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his “nouveau shamanic acting ability” is put to the test. This Saturday, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
The director's claustrophobic thriller remains effective despite the lack of a follow-up. Located in 1978 Denver, a series of disappearances has made the local kids anxious. After Finney is taken by the villain and imprisoned in a basement, he dreads the worst. But the disconnected phone on the wall continues to ring, with ghostly voices giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. This Saturday, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between spirituality and money, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic about the fallen religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye commence monetising the nation's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and hypocrisy, yet the lead actress manages to depict the real-life figure in a likable light. Next Tuesday, early morning, Film4
The Spy Mystery
The current week's additional entry from the filmmaker is a intelligence thriller as precise similar to the collars sported by the actor's British agent. His assignment is with uncovering a traitor inside the organization from a group of five – including is his spouse. Both actors excel of understated style, leading to a delightful mental battle of truth or lie unfolds. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, the Sky channel
