Finest Television Selections: Seven Essential Films This Coming Week
Highlighted Choice
This Satirical Thriller
Coralie Fargeat's bold commentary examines the demanding standards for women's appearance and the perceived horrors of advancing years. Demi Moore delivers an inspired acting turn as Elisabeth, an aging film star forced into starring in a fitness program on television. Edged out due to her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she seeks out a mysterious and terrifying treatment called the Substance. This produces a new version of herself named Sue, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic between the two. October 17th, Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit thriller stars Knightley as Laura, a top-notch writer who opts for a break from covering international wars to join a luxury cruise with a gravely sick wealthy inheritor and donor, her partner, plus additional extremely wealthy guests. However when an unknown lady falls into the sea one night and all passengers insists she wasn't real, the reporter's sleuthing skills take over. Out now, the Netflix platform
This Supernatural Story
Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries with this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their recent residence, the lens – as the unseen entity – tracks their movements. The daughter appears sensing the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that doesn't outstay its welcome, with a twist that may be unexpected. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
This Self-Referential Film
The iconic actor wholeheartedly adopts his cult stardom in this meta comedy caper. He portrays a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who takes on a lucrative offer to appear at a birthday party in Mallorca for billionaire superfan Javi. Contacted by the CIA to investigate the potential kingpin, Cage's unconventional method is put to the test. This Saturday, evening, Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's contained scarefest stands strong despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, a series of child abductions has rendered the youth frightened. When Finney gets captured by the kidnapper and locked up in a dungeon, he anticipates a fatal end. Yet the non-functional line on the wall keeps ringing, with spooky callers providing assistance, as the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the struggle between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for Mammon in this director's delightfully tacky biopic regarding the shamed TV preacher and her criminal husband. Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple set about capitalizing on the nation's religious faith. It's a riot of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, however Chastain manages to show the character in a likable light. October 14th, late night, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
This week's additional entry from Steven Soderbergh delivers a spy mystery as sharp like the turtlenecks sported by Fassbender's British agent. His assignment is to identify a mole among the team from a group of five – one of whom is his own wife. Both actors are masters of understated style, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty unfolds. The supporting cast participate the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, the Sky channel
