Prime TV Picks: Seven Must-Watch Motion Pictures This Week
Highlighted Choice
The Substance
The filmmaker's unflinching commentary addresses the oppressive nature of feminine aesthetics and the feared consequences of ageing. The veteran actress presents an inspired performance as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star demoted to hosting a workout series on television. Pushed out due to her slimy boss her manager Harvey, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying procedure known as "The Substance". This creates a new version of herself called Sue, resulting in an increasingly parasitic dynamic between them. October 17th, the streaming service Paramount+
This Mystery Thriller
This classic whodunit mystery includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a hiatus from reporting on international wars to embark on a luxury cruise accompanied by a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her husband, and other filthy rich guests. Yet once an enigmatic female disappears from the ship overnight and all passengers denies she ever existed, her journalistic curiosity kick in. Streaming currently, on Netflix
Presence
Steven Soderbergh challenges his film-making abilities in this clever paranormal narrative shot entirely from the viewpoint of the spirit. When a household featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their fresh home, the filming device – AKA the Presence – shadows their actions. The daughter appears sensing the ghostly being, and it seems guarding her. Yet what is the reason? This is an entertaining concept that remains concise, featuring a surprise you might not see coming. October 11th, multiple showings, Sky Cinema
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent
Cage wholeheartedly adopts his unique fame through this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a narcissistic celebrity called Nicolas Cage who accepts a $1m payday to visit a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the wealthy Javi Gutierrez. Hired by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the potential kingpin, his unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, evening, Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's locked-room horror stands strong despite the lack of a sequel. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, multiple kidnappings has made the children frightened. After Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a cellar, he dreads a fatal end. But the non-functional line mounted nearby keeps ringing, with eerie communicators providing assistance, while the prescient dreams of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. An effective horror. Saturday 11 October, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Eyes of Tammy Faye
In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for materialism in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky film adaptation about the fallen TV preacher plus her lawbreaking partner. Andrew Garfield plays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims initially, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about monetising the nation's religious faith. It's a riot of bad interior design, overdone appearance and hypocrisy, however Jessica Chastain manages to show the character in a likable light. October 14th, early morning, on Film4
The Spy Mystery
The current week's second offering by the same director is a intelligence thriller as sharp similar to the collars worn by Michael Fassbender's British agent. He receives a mission to discover a traitor inside the organization from a group of five – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Both actors excel of understated style, leading to a delightful mind game of deception or honesty takes place. The supporting cast take part the smart espionage amusement. Friday 17 October, various showings, the Sky channel
