Prime Small Screen Choices: Seven Must-Watch Films In the Days Ahead
Top Selection
The Substance
Director Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary addresses the oppressive nature of women's appearance as well as the dreaded aspects of ageing. The veteran actress offers a brilliant portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a mature actress forced into hosting a workout series on the small screen. Forced aside due to her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying process known as "The Substance". This produces a youthful duplicate named Sue, culminating in an increasingly toxic connection between the two. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque mystery stars Keira Knightley playing Laura, an ace reporter who opts for some time off from reporting on world issues to join an opulent ship with a terminally ill wealthy inheritor and donor, her partner, and other filthy rich passengers. But after an unknown lady disappears from the ship during the evening and the entire crew claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity awaken. Out now, on Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director tests his directorial skills in this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely from the perspective of a ghost. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their recent residence, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. The daughter appears conscious of the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. However, the motive remains? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
Nicolas Cage wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this autobiographical spoof. He plays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to attend a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the CIA to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's locked-room horror holds up well without requiring a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, a series of kidnappings has left the youth frightened. After Finney is taken by the kidnapper and held captive in a cellar, he dreads a terrible outcome. However, the disconnected phone in the room repeatedly calls, with ghostly voices providing assistance, and the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. October 11th, 10.50pm, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's delightfully tacky film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield acts as the greedy Jim, who proclaims initially, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye commence capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of poor styling, overdone appearance and hypocrisy, yet Jessica Chastain succeeds to present the real-life figure in a likable light. Next Tuesday, late night, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
This period's second offering by the same director presents a espionage tale as sharp like the turtlenecks sported by the actor's British agent. His assignment is to identify a traitor among the team from five suspects – one of whom is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are experts of understated style, so a delicious mind game of deception or honesty takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema