Prime Television Selections: Seven Can't-Miss Motion Pictures This Week

Top Selection

The Substance

The filmmaker's bold commentary examines the tyranny of feminine aesthetics as well as the dreaded aspects of ageing. Demi Moore delivers a brilliant performance playing Elisabeth, a mature actress reduced to starring in an aerobics show on the small screen. Pushed out due to her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a secretive and gruesome procedure titled this experimental method. This creates a new version of herself called Sue, culminating in an increasingly vampiric relationship among both women. Friday 17 October, Paramount Plus

This Mystery Thriller

This classic whodunit story stars Keira Knightley in the role of Laura, an ace reporter who decides to take a break from reporting on international wars to embark on a luxury cruise alongside a terminally ill Scandinavian billionaire and donor, her partner, and other affluent guests. Yet once an unknown lady goes overboard during the evening and all passengers claims she was never there, Laura's investigative instincts awaken. Streaming currently, on Netflix

Presence Film

Steven Soderbergh pushes his creative boundaries through this nifty paranormal narrative filmed completely from the viewpoint of the spirit. After a clan including mother Rebekah and her distressed teen Chloe occupies their recent residence, the filming device – as the unseen entity – follows them around. Chloe seems aware of the supernatural presence, and it seems protective of her. However, the motive remains? The premise is enjoyable that avoids overstaying, featuring a surprise that could catch you off guard. October 11th, 4.35pm, 10.10pm, the Sky channel

Nicolas Cage's Meta Comedy

The iconic actor embraces his cult stardom through this meta comedy caper. He portrays an egotistical Hollywood actor named Nicolas Cage who agrees to a $1m payday to visit a celebration in Mallorca for the rich Javi Gutierrez. Contacted by the intelligence agency to gather intel on the alleged criminal, his unique performing skills comes in handy. October 11th, prime time, on Channel 4

This Creepy Thriller

Scott Derrickson's claustrophobic thriller holds up well despite the lack of a follow-up. Taking place in the late 70s in Denver, multiple disappearances has made the local kids on edge. After Finney is kidnapped by “the Grabber” and imprisoned in a basement, he fears the worst. However, the old telephone in the room continues to ring, with spooky callers giving advice, as the prescient dreams of his sister Gwen might rescue him. A solid creepfest. October 11th, late evening, the Film4 channel

This Dramatic Portrait

In the conflict between spirituality and money, the winner is obvious for greed in Michael Showalter's delightfully tacky biopic of the disgraced televangelist plus her lawbreaking partner. The actor plays the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye commence profiting from the nation's religious faith. It's a riot of tacky decor, bad makeup and bad faith, though Jessica Chastain achieves to present the character as a sympathetic figure. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, Film4

This Espionage Thriller

This week's second offering from the filmmaker delivers a intelligence thriller as tight as the polo necks used by Fassbender's UK spy. He receives a mission to identify a traitor inside the organization out of five possibilities – among them is his spouse. Both actors are experts of deadpan cool, resulting in an engaging psychological game of fact versus fiction unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela join in the intelligent intelligence fun. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere