Film Review: The Substance
Intense self-loathing and the horror of ageing in Hollywood; (plus some related reading on the topics of skincare, beauty and ageing in general)
“Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself? You. Only better in every way”.
On Monday, I saw The Substance, and found my mind swirling with a million thoughts. After allowing time to distill these impressions into coherent ideas, I've decided to channel them into a film review.
The Substance is a 2024 satirical (feminist) body horror film co-produced, written and directed by French filmmaker Coralie Fargeat. Starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid, the film follows the journey of a Hollywood actress grappling with fading stardom. In a desperate attempt to restore her waning celebrity, Moore's character turns to a black market drug—a cell-replicating substance that promises to create a younger, better version of herself (played by Qualley). Her reckless decision, of course, leads to unforeseen and terrifying consequences.
(This review includes spoilers.)