Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
Director Coralie Fargeat's unflinching satire addresses the demanding standards for women's appearance and the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress delivers a masterful portrayal playing Elisabeth, a mature actress reduced to hosting a fitness program on television. Forced aside by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a secretive and gruesome treatment known as "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate called Sue, culminating in a steadily more parasitic dynamic among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit thriller stars Knightley as Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from reporting on world issues to join a luxury cruise with a terminally ill Norwegian shipping heiress and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other filthy rich individuals. But after a mysterious woman goes overboard during the evening and all passengers claims she was never there, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Out now, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities with this innovative paranormal narrative filmed completely through the eyes of a ghost. When a household featuring mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their fresh home, the camera – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. Chloe seems aware of the ghostly being, and the entity appears protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom via this meta comedy caper. He acts as an egotistical film star called Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to attend a birthday party on the Spanish island for the wealthy Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, prime time, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well despite the lack of a follow-up. Located in 1978 Denver, several kidnappings has left the local kids on edge. After Finney is taken by the villain and imprisoned in a dungeon, he dreads a fatal end. But the disconnected phone mounted nearby continues to ring, with eerie communicators providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for materialism in this director's wonderfully garish biopic of the disgraced religious broadcaster plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor portrays the greedy Jim, who proclaims at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals commence capitalizing on the people's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of poor styling, bad makeup and insincerity, though the lead actress achieves to depict Tammy Faye with compassion. October 14th, 1.15am, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This period's second offering from the filmmaker delivers a espionage tale as tight like the turtlenecks sported by the actor's intelligence officer. He receives a mission to discover a mole within their ranks out of five possibilities – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of deadpan cool, so a delicious psychological game of fact versus fiction takes place. The supporting cast join in the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, various showings, Sky Cinema
