The Substance (2024) Review

I’ll be honest, I didn’t know a lot about The Substance going in but I’m glad my friend suggested it.

The little I heard about the movie prior to booking the tickets was how good Demi Moore’s performance was and it did not disappoint. Both Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are outstanding in the film, fully committing to their performances in roles that require the actors to give their full selves and show themselves at their most vulnerable.

The Substance is a modern psychological thriller that sits in good company with other modern classics like Black Swan and Midsommar. Not only is it a well-written look into the world’s obsession with youth and beauty, it is a great study of what people will do if given the opportunity to be a younger, better version of themself. Throughout the movie, you definitely ask yourself whether you would try The Substance if given the opportunity.

The directing, editing, and sound all contribute to the success of the movie. The shots, the cuts and the aural elements all ramp up in intensity until most of the people in the cinema were cringing in some way. This is definitely not a movie for anyone with a weak stomach. 

But then comes the last 30 minutes of the film. While the characters are unravelling, unfortunately, the story as well. Though it might have been the intention of writer and director, Coralie Fargeat, it does somewhat spoil the film’s message as a satire on modern culture that is almost too believable as it becomes ridiculous and fantastical.

Highly recommended for those that enjoy horror and psychological thrillers and for maximum impact it should definitely be seen on the big screen.

Brett

For more of what we watched in November, check out the full podcast episode.