Top TV Selections: 7 Must-Watch Motion Pictures In the Days Ahead
Top Selection
This Satirical Thriller
The filmmaker's daring commentary tackles the demanding standards for women's appearance as well as the perceived horrors of ageing. Hollywood star Demi Moore offers a masterful acting turn in the role of Elisabeth, a mature film star demoted to hosting an aerobics show on television. Edged out by her slimy boss Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she undergoes a mysterious and terrifying treatment known as "The Substance". This produces a new version of herself named Sue, culminating in a steadily more vampiric relationship between the two. October 17th, Paramount Plus
The Woman in Cabin 10 Film
This Agatha Christie-esque story features Keira Knightley as Laura, a top-notch writer who takes a break from covering global conflict to board an opulent ship accompanied by a gravely sick Norwegian shipping heiress and donor, her husband, and other filthy rich guests. Yet once a mysterious woman goes overboard overnight and everyone claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Available now, the Netflix platform
Presence Film
Soderbergh tests his creative boundaries in this nifty ghostly tale shot entirely from the perspective of the spirit. As a family with Lucy Liu as Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe occupies their new suburban house, the camera – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The daughter appears aware of the supernatural presence, and the entity appears protective of her. Yet what is the reason? The premise is enjoyable that remains concise, including a revelation you might not see coming. Saturday 11 October, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy
Cage embraces his cult stardom in this self-referential adventure. He acts as a narcissistic celebrity named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a million-dollar gig to visit a celebration at a Mediterranean location for the rich superfan Javi. Recruited by the intelligence agency to investigate the potential kingpin, the actor's “nouveau shamanic acting ability” proves useful. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4
This Creepy Thriller
Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller remains effective without requiring a continuation. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has left the youth on edge. Once Finney is taken by the villain and locked up in a dungeon, he fears the worst. But the disconnected phone on the wall repeatedly calls, with eerie communicators offering help, while the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen could save him. An effective horror. October 11th, 10.50pm, the Film4 channel
The Tammy Faye Biopic
In the struggle between faith and wealth, the winner is obvious for materialism in this director's delightfully tacky true story of the disgraced televangelist and her criminal husband. Garfield acts as the venal Jim, who declares initially, asserting religious justification for riches. He and Tammy Faye begin capitalizing on the American public's spiritual convictions. It's an extravaganza of tacky decor, excessive cosmetics and bad faith, though the lead actress succeeds to show the real-life figure as a sympathetic figure. Next Tuesday, early morning, on Film4
Black Bag
This week's second offering from the filmmaker delivers a spy mystery as tight like the turtlenecks worn by the actor's intelligence officer. He receives a mission with uncovering a double agent among the team from a group of five – including is Kathryn, played by Cate Blanchett. The two stars are masters of deadpan cool, so a delicious mind game of truth or lie develops. The supporting cast join in the intelligent intelligence fun. Friday 17 October, 8.05am, 12.55pm, 8pm, the Sky channel
