The Substance [2024] – Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid

The Substance is….something. A psychological thriller about the challenges of growing old in the public eye.

Starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid, The Substance is a darkly humorous dive into body horror and satire that you won’t forget anytime soon. A blend of grotesque visuals with sharp wit to create an experience that’s as captivating as it is twisted. Moore is fearless in this bold, brash and angry sophomore feature. Simultaneously funny and nauseating. A weird mix, I know.

Written and directed by Coralie Fargeat, this is the kind of film that could only have been made by a woman, telling us a lot about the expectations society and show business have of women, and how they must stay young, vital and smiling forever.

As someone turning almost forty, I definitely see some of my insecurities highlighted in this film. It is not for the squeamish, and that includes me, but I did admire the craftsmanship it took to pull this off, as well as the actors who knew just how far to lean into the satire and black humor of this story.

From the set design to the art direction, and the practical effects, the film has it all, and on a very high caliber.

My only comment on the film? Excellent for its first two hours, before it drags on for another 20 minutes.

Should You Watch It?

The Substance is the most singular and unapologetic work of cinema of this decade. Original, artistic, eye opening.

Where Can I Watch It?

You can stream The Substance on Mubi & Paramount+.