31/17

Elisabeth Sparkle: There was a little substance abuse

Tale

A fading celebrity uses a black market drug: a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself. Ray Liotta starred in the film in February 2022, but died in May of that year before he could film his scenes. He was replaced by Dennis Quaid, but Liotta is still mentioned in the director’s “Thank You Notes” during the box office credits. The toilet mirror reappears intact after being broken repeatedly during a fight sequence.

Featured in The 7PM Project: September 20, 2024 (2024) episode

A special thank you in the closing credits goes to the many extras on the theater stage that was covered in blood… Pump It Up Written by Michael Hall, Leonardo Stella Starring Earl Gregory Produced by Julien Deguines. The Substance: A shocking, disgusting, terrifying satirical look at celebrity culture, misogyny and youth cults. Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore) was once a big Hollywood star, but she’s 50 years old and hosts a home exercise TV show, but she’s a bit out of date and a terrible producer, Harvey (Dennis Quaid) decides he needs a younger star.

Sue is now a star, but there is a temptation to extend the week

After a car accident, Elisabeth was informed of a new unofficial procedure called Substance, which allows a younger self to emerge from your body in the privacy of your apartment. Now there are two of them, but they are still one in their own way, and every seven days they have to change places. Sue (Margaret Qualley) has natural charm and girlish beauty, gets Elisabeth’s old job at an open casting call. But he still has to take a break from studying every other week to allow Elisabeth to come back to life.

This breach of the Faustian pact has consequences

No spoilers, more made it to the announcement on this page. Suspension of disbelief in the substance used and related processes comes easily. The film’s faults (yes, there are some) are that it’s maybe 10 minutes too long and the ending sequence is totally over the top, but it also has its strengths as it pays homage to many horror and sci-fi films. Really amazing makeup and prosthetics are used well, you will see Sue evolve from Elisabeth and other physical changes.

Co-produced, written and directed by Coralie Fargeat

Great acting from Moore, Qualley and Quaid, along with visual metaphorical references to what’s going on and close-ups to deadly effect. This is not a film for the squeamish or the faint of heart, but it is an excellent body horror/black comedy/satire. 8/10.. Check out our list of exciting new films from this year’s film festivals including Venice, TIFF, New York Film Festival and more.