Highlighted Choice
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's unflinching satire addresses the oppressive nature of female beauty and the perceived horrors of advancing years. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a brilliant portrayal as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to starring in a fitness program on TV. Forced aside by her deceitful superior Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a mysterious and gruesome treatment called "The Substance". This creates a younger clone called Sue, culminating in a progressively toxic connection between them. This Friday, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This suspenseful story includes Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who decides to take some time off from covering world issues to board a high-end voyage with a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, and other extremely wealthy individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman disappears from the ship one night and everyone denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills awaken. Streaming currently, Netflix
Presence
The acclaimed director pushes his directorial skills through this innovative paranormal narrative filmed completely through the eyes of the phantom. When a household including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – representing the ghost – follows them around. Chloe seems sensing the ghostly being, and the entity appears defensive toward her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. This Saturday, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor embraces his cult stardom in this self-referential adventure. He portrays an egotistical film star named Nicolas Cage who accepts a lucrative offer to attend a celebration in Mallorca for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Recruited by government spies to gather intel on the alleged criminal, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. Saturday 11 October, evening, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller stands strong even without a continuation. Set in 1978 Denver, multiple child abductions has made the children frightened. After Finney is taken by the villain and held captive in a basement, he dreads a fatal end. However, the old telephone in the room continues to ring, with eerie communicators offering help, and the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A genuinely scary movie. This Saturday, nighttime, on Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for Mammon in Michael Showalter's wonderfully garish film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield plays the greedy Jim, who declares early on, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye commence monetising the people's religious faith. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and insincerity, yet the lead actress manages to depict the character as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, early morning, on Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's another release from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as precise like the turtlenecks sported by the actor's British agent. He is tasked with uncovering a traitor inside the organization from five suspects – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of calm composure, leading to a delightful mind game of fact versus fiction takes place. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the clever spy entertainment. October 17th, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
