Finest Small Screen Selections: 7 Must-Watch Films This Week
Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's bold commentary addresses the oppressive nature of women's appearance and the dreaded aspects of advancing years. Demi Moore offers a brilliant portrayal in the role of Elisabeth, a mature celebrity demoted to hosting a workout series on TV. Pushed out by her slimy boss Harvey, she turns to a mysterious and horrifying procedure titled the Substance. This creates a youthful duplicate named Sue, resulting in a progressively parasitic dynamic between them. October 17th, Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit thriller stars the talented actress playing Laura, a skilled journalist who takes a break from covering international wars to board a high-end voyage accompanied by an ailing wealthy inheritor and donor, her partner, as well as other affluent guests. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship one night and everyone insists she wasn't real, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Streaming currently, on Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh pushes his film-making abilities through this clever ghostly tale shot entirely through the eyes of the phantom. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their recent residence, the lens – representing the ghost – follows them around. The teen shows signs of conscious of the supernatural presence, and it looks like guarding her. However, the motive remains? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor embraces his eccentric image via this self-referential adventure. He plays a self-obsessed Hollywood actor playing himself who agrees to a million-dollar gig to visit a birthday party on the Spanish island for billionaire Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by government spies to investigate the suspected cartel boss, Cage's unique performing skills is put to the test. This Saturday, 9pm, the Channel 4 network
The Black Phone
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller stands strong without requiring a follow-up. Located in the late 70s in Denver, multiple kidnappings has left the youth anxious. When Finney gets captured by “the Grabber” and held captive in a cellar, he fears a fatal end. But the old telephone in the room continues to ring, with spooky callers giving advice, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister may be his salvation. A solid creepfest. Saturday 11 October, nighttime, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for Mammon in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic regarding the shamed televangelist and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who proclaims at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the American public's religious faith. It's a riot of tacky decor, overdone appearance and bad faith, though Chastain succeeds to depict the character in a likable light. October 14th, late night, the Film4 channel
The Spy Mystery
The current week's another release by the same director is a espionage tale as precise as the polo necks used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked with uncovering a traitor within their ranks from a group of five – among them is his own wife. The two stars are masters of calm composure, so a delicious mind game of fact versus fiction takes place. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema
