Finest Small Screen Picks: 7 Must-Watch Movies This Week
Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold satire addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the perceived horrors of growing older. The veteran actress presents a brilliant performance as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to hosting a workout series on TV. Edged out thanks to her deceitful superior Harvey, she seeks out a secretive and terrifying treatment called "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a progressively parasitic dynamic among both women. This Friday, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque thriller includes Knightley in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take a hiatus from writing about international wars to join a luxury cruise with a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, and other filthy rich individuals. Yet once a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and the entire crew denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Available now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh challenges his creative boundaries in this clever supernatural story captured wholly from the perspective of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their recent residence, the filming device β as the unseen entity β tracks their movements. Chloe seems conscious of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. However, the motive remains? This is an entertaining concept that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. This Saturday, multiple showings, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Nicolas Cage embraces his eccentric image via this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to visit a festive event in Mallorca for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to investigate the suspected cartel boss, the actor's unique performing skills comes in handy. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, on Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong despite the lack of a continuation. Located in 1970s Colorado, a series of kidnappings has rendered the children anxious. When Finney is kidnapped by the kidnapper and held captive in a basement, he anticipates a fatal end. But the disconnected phone in the room keeps ringing, with eerie communicators giving advice, while the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, late evening, Film4
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the battle between God and Mammon, the victory is clear for Mammon in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher and her felon spouse. The actor plays the venal Jim, who states at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about capitalizing on the nation's spiritual convictions. It's a riot of poor styling, overdone appearance and bad faith, however the lead actress succeeds to show the character as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a intelligence thriller as precise as the polo necks used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to discover a double agent inside the organization from five suspects β including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are masters of calm composure, so a delicious psychological game of deception or honesty takes place. The supporting cast join in the intelligent intelligence fun. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema
