Prime TV Selections: 7 Can't-Miss Films In the Days Ahead

Top Selection

The Substance

The filmmaker's unflinching commentary examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics along with the perceived horrors of advancing years. Demi Moore delivers an inspired performance as Elisabeth, an aging film star demoted to hosting an aerobics show on television. Edged out by her slimy boss Harvey, she seeks out an enigmatic and horrifying process titled this experimental method. This produces a younger clone portrayed by Margaret Qualley, culminating in a steadily more vampiric relationship between them. October 17th, Paramount+

This Mystery Thriller

This classic whodunit story includes Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from writing about global conflict to embark on a high-end voyage with a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and philanthropist, her partner, as well as other affluent guests. Yet once a mysterious woman falls into the sea during the evening and all passengers insists she wasn't real, Laura's investigative instincts take over. Out now, the Netflix platform

Presence

The acclaimed director pushes his creative boundaries through this clever paranormal narrative filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. When a household including mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their fresh home, the filming device – representing the ghost – tracks their movements. Chloe seems aware of the ghostly being, and it looks like guarding her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, with a twist that could catch you off guard. October 11th, multiple showings, the Sky channel

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent

The iconic actor embraces his cult stardom in this autobiographical spoof. He portrays a self-obsessed celebrity named Nicolas Cage who takes on a $1m payday to visit a birthday party at a Mediterranean location for the rich superfan Javi. Contacted by the CIA to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his unconventional method proves useful. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4

The Black Phone Horror

Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a follow-up. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, several kidnappings has made the youth on edge. Once Finney is taken by the kidnapper and held captive in a dungeon, he dreads a fatal end. But the old telephone mounted nearby continues to ring, with ghostly voices offering help, while the intuitive nightmares from his sibling Gwen may be his salvation. An effective horror. October 11th, late evening, on Film4

This Dramatic Portrait

In the conflict between faith and wealth, the victory is clear for greed in Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic about the fallen TV preacher and her criminal husband. Garfield acts as the corrupt Bakker, who declares early on, claiming divine approval for wealth. The couple begin capitalizing on the nation's spiritual convictions. It's a spectacle of bad interior design, overdone appearance and insincerity, however Chastain succeeds to present Tammy Faye in a likable light. Tuesday 14 October, late night, on Film4

The Spy Mystery

The current week's second offering by the same director delivers a spy mystery as precise similar to the collars used by the actor's UK spy. He receives a mission to identify a traitor among the team from five suspects – one of whom is his own wife. Each performer are masters of deadpan cool, leading to a delightful psychological game of deception or honesty unfolds. Additional actors take part the clever spy entertainment. Friday 17 October, various showings, Sky Cinema