Prime TV Selections: Seven Can't-Miss Films This Week
Top Selection
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary tackles the oppressive nature of female beauty and the perceived horrors of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore presents a brilliant portrayal playing Elisabeth, a mature celebrity forced into presenting a fitness program on TV. Forced aside by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and gruesome procedure titled the Substance. This creates a new version of herself portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to an increasingly parasitic dynamic between the two. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
The Woman in Cabin 10
This classic whodunit story includes Knightley as Laura, a skilled journalist who opts for a hiatus from writing about world issues to join a luxury cruise accompanied by an ailing Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her husband, and other extremely wealthy passengers. But after a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and the entire crew claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Available now, Netflix
This Supernatural Story
Soderbergh tests his film-making abilities through this nifty ghostly tale captured wholly through the eyes of the phantom. After a clan with Lucy Liu as Rebekah plus Callina Liang as Chloe settles into their recent residence, the lens – AKA the Presence – tracks their movements. The teen shows signs of aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. October 11th, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
The iconic actor embraces his unique fame through this self-referential adventure. He plays an egotistical Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to attend a festive event in Mallorca for the rich Javi Gutierrez. Recruited by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, Cage's unconventional method proves useful. Saturday 11 October, 9pm, Channel 4
The Black Phone Horror
Derrickson's contained scarefest remains effective without requiring a follow-up. Set in 1970s Colorado, multiple kidnappings has made the local kids anxious. After Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a cellar, he dreads a terrible outcome. However, the non-functional line on the wall repeatedly calls, with spooky callers offering help, while the prophetic visions from his sibling Gwen could save him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, 10.50pm, on Film4
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the battle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for Mammon in this director's delightfully tacky true story about the fallen televangelist and her criminal husband. Andrew Garfield acts as the corrupt Bakker, who states initially, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye commence monetising the people's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and hypocrisy, though the lead actress manages to present the character as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
The current week's another release from the filmmaker delivers a intelligence thriller as sharp like the turtlenecks sported by the actor's British agent. He is tasked with uncovering a double agent within their ranks out of five possibilities – among them is his spouse. The two stars are masters of deadpan cool, so a delicious mind game of truth or lie unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela participate the smart espionage amusement. This Friday, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
