jack-davy

There are two films my friend and I have applauded LOUDLY in the cinema when the credits have rolled.

The first was in 2013, and the second was November 2024. The Substance.

Needless to say, we gained momentum pretty quickly and the whole theatre joined in and we're clapping too.

What a film!

Demi Moore deserves all the recognition and whatever awards may come here way for this role.

I relished every scene with her in. And the same for Margarey Qualley.

Admittedly, the ending could have been shorter and less 'OTT' - and had it been, I believe we still would have got the message - but it did not diminish the enjoyment we felt watching that film in the slightest. Such a great analogy about the subject matter of women, celebrity culture, fame and ageing.

I really feel that any of those who don't 'get it' sadly don't possess the mental capacity to look beyond the screen and think more about the meaning.

Take it at face value only, and you won't understand the message.

A true 10/10. Have already watched a second time and will definitely watch a third when it comes to DVD. (Yes, I'm 30 and I'm old school!)

P.s. The soundtrack slaps and the editing is top notch, dahhling.

Expectations were low going into this film, after all the below average reviews online.

They needn't have been

For me, one of the more realistic films in the horror genre. Yes, some lingering scenic shots were a bit much, not every character had its arc completed, and the time jumps showing previous victims felt like they could have been worked in a bit better.

But the film, as based on true events, doesn't go to a place with insane twists and turns and wild jump scares. Instead it builds to a climax that feels real and as if you were in the protagonists POV and the ending is satisfying, which a lot of horror films fail to accomplish.

You're really rooting for the lead girl and feel for her.

If you're expecting a dramatic twist where they unmask the baddie and you want a "it was X all along!" then maybe give this a miss.

Cracking soundtrack too, both with the 70s music and the original compositions.

Would recommend :)

Was really looking forward to this especially with it set in a not too distant London with an all black cast and such a promising story. The right idea was there. It was just executed so badly. So boring. It's fine to be avant garde and have long lingering shots if there is a reason. Here, it was just not retaining my attention. Things happened. There seemed to be no beginning, middle or end.

Deeply frustrating.

I can't even 'spoil' it for you as there simply is nothing to spoil. Nothing happend whatsoever.

Either Daniel Kalyuka needs to purely stick to acting (which he is great at) or he greaty needed some assistance with the directing. And the writing. And the editing. Sorry Daniel!