Pick of the Week
The Substance Film
The filmmaker's daring commentary tackles the tyranny of female beauty and the feared consequences of growing older. The veteran actress delivers an inspired portrayal as Elisabeth, a mature film star demoted to presenting a workout series on television. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes an enigmatic and gruesome process called the Substance. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, leading to an increasingly toxic connection between them. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit mystery features Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for some time off from writing about world issues to board an opulent ship accompanied by a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her spouse, plus additional affluent passengers. However when an unknown lady disappears from the ship one night and all passengers denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity take over. Available now, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh tests his directorial skills through this nifty supernatural story captured wholly from the perspective of a ghost. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their fresh home, the filming device – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems aware of the poltergeist, and it seems guarding her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, with a twist you might not see coming. This Saturday, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his eccentric image in this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic Hollywood actor playing himself who accepts a million-dollar gig to visit a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to gather intel on the potential kingpin, Cage's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror remains effective even without a sequel. Located in 1970s Colorado, a series of disappearances has rendered the children on edge. When Finney gets captured by the villain and locked up in a cellar, he dreads a fatal end. However, the old telephone mounted nearby keeps ringing, with spooky callers giving advice, while the intuitive nightmares of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for materialism in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish biopic about the fallen televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who declares initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple commence monetising the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, however Jessica Chastain manages to present Tammy Faye with compassion. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This period's additional entry from the filmmaker is a spy mystery as sharp as the polo necks worn by Michael Fassbender's intelligence officer. His assignment is with uncovering a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is his own wife. Both actors are experts of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful mental battle of truth or lie takes place. Additional actors join in the smart espionage amusement. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
