Prime Small Screen Picks: 7 Must-Watch Movies In the Days Ahead
Top Selection
The Substance
Coralie Fargeat's bold satire examines the tyranny of female beauty as well as the feared consequences of growing older. Hollywood star Demi Moore delivers an inspired acting turn as Elisabeth, a 50-year-old film star forced into starring in a fitness program on television. Edged out by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, she undergoes an enigmatic and gruesome treatment known as "The Substance". This creates a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, leading to a steadily more toxic connection between the two. October 17th, Paramount Plus
This Mystery Thriller
This Agatha Christie-esque thriller includes Keira Knightley as Laura, an ace reporter who opts for a hiatus from covering international wars to embark on a high-end voyage alongside a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her spouse, as well as other extremely wealthy passengers. However when a mysterious woman disappears from the ship overnight and all passengers denies she ever existed, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Out now, Netflix
Presence
Soderbergh pushes his film-making abilities in this nifty ghostly tale filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. As a family featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their fresh home, the camera – as the unseen entity – shadows their actions. The teen shows signs of sensing the poltergeist, and the entity appears guarding her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, including a revelation that could catch you off guard. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage embraces his unique fame via this autobiographical spoof. He acts as a self-obsessed celebrity playing himself who accepts a $1m payday to visit a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for billionaire Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Hired by the intelligence agency to investigate the potential kingpin, the actor's unique performing skills proves useful. October 11th, prime time, Channel 4
The Black Phone
Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a sequel. Set in 1978 Denver, a series of kidnappings has made the local kids anxious. After Finney is taken by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a dungeon, he fears a fatal end. But the old telephone on the wall keeps ringing, with spooky callers giving advice, and the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister could save him. An effective horror. October 11th, nighttime, Film4
This Dramatic Portrait
In the battle between faith and wealth, it's a knockout win for materialism in this director's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed TV preacher and her felon spouse. Andrew Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who declares at the beginning, asserting religious justification for riches. Both individuals set about profiting from the American public's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and insincerity, yet Jessica Chastain manages to present the real-life figure in a likable light. Next Tuesday, 1.15am, Film4
This Espionage Thriller
This week's additional entry from the filmmaker presents a spy mystery as tight like the turtlenecks used by Fassbender's intelligence officer. He is tasked to identify a traitor within their ranks from a group of five – among them is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. Each performer are experts of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging psychological game of deception or honesty unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the intelligent intelligence fun. October 17th, various showings, the Sky channel