Pick of the Week
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's unflinching critique tackles the tyranny of female beauty and the dreaded aspects of advancing years. The veteran actress delivers a masterful portrayal as Elisabeth, a mature actress reduced to hosting an aerobics show on TV. Pushed out thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she turns to an enigmatic and gruesome treatment called the Substance. This generates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in a progressively toxic connection among both women. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10
This Agatha Christie-esque story features the talented actress in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who takes some time off from reporting on world issues to join an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her husband, as well as other filthy rich passengers. But after an enigmatic female goes overboard overnight and everyone claims she was never there, her journalistic curiosity awaken. Available now, Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries with this innovative ghostly tale filmed completely through the eyes of a ghost. When a household with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their recent residence, the camera – as the unseen entity – follows them around. The teen shows signs of conscious of the supernatural presence, and it looks like protective of her. But why? This is an entertaining concept that remains concise, with a twist that could catch you off guard. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom through this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a self-obsessed film star called Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to attend a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the CIA to investigate the alleged criminal, the actor's unique performing skills is put to the test. October 11th, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
This Creepy Thriller
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well even without a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of disappearances has left the local kids on edge. Once Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and locked up in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. But the disconnected phone mounted nearby keeps ringing, with spooky callers providing assistance, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, late evening, Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in Showalter's delightfully tacky true story about the fallen televangelist and her criminal husband. Garfield plays the greedy Jim, who states at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. The couple begin profiting from the American public's religious faith. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, yet Chastain succeeds to present Tammy Faye as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, late night, Film4
Black Bag
This week's second offering by the same director presents a spy mystery as tight like the turtlenecks sported by Fassbender's British agent. He is tasked to discover a traitor among the team from a group of five – among them is his spouse. The two stars excel of understated style, leading to a delightful psychological game of fact versus fiction takes place. Additional actors join in the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema
