I recently watched the 2024 film The Substance, directed by Coralie Fargeat.
The film is in the body horror genre with a darkly satirical take on Hollywood’s obsession with youth and beauty.
Demi Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle, a former celebrity who, struggling to stay relevant in an industry that’s moved on, turns to a mysterious drug known as “The Substance.”
This experimental drug temporarily creates a younger, more perfect version of herself, promising a second chance in the limelight.
However, the transformation comes at a terrifying cost as the drug’s side effects spiral into grotesque horror.
The film features bold pinks and blues that intensify its surreal atmosphere, while the costume designs further amplify its themes.
Exaggerated styles reflect the characters’ personas and highlight the industry’s artificial nature.
The Cast of The Substance
The cast of The Substance brings together a mix of established talent and rising stars, each adding their own flair to this horror satire:
Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle
Moore portrays the aging celebrity Elisabeth Sparkle, desperate to reclaim her youth and status through a miracle drug.
Known for her iconic roles in films like Ghost and A Few Good Men, Moore returns to the big screen with a performance that dives into both the physical horror and emotional vulnerability of her character.
Moore captures Elisabeth’s despair and vanity, offering a complex portrayal that anchors the film’s critique of Hollywood’s obsession with beauty,
Margaret Qualley as Sue
Qualley, a rising star recognized for roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and Maid, plays Sue, the youthful doppelganger created by “The Substance.”
Her role as Sue is both seductive and unsettling, embodying society’s unrealistic beauty standards.
Qualley’s portrayal adds a contrasting energy to Moore’s Elisabeth, as Sue exudes confidence while mirroring the superficial traits Elisabeth aspires to regain.
Dennis Quaid as Harvey
Quaid plays the role of Harvey, Elisabeth’s manipulative boss.
Known for his roles in The Parent Trap and Far From Heaven, Quaid delivers a truly memorable performance.
He amplifies Harvey’s grotesque personality with a touch of cartoonish villainy.
His character embodies the ruthlessness of the entertainment industry, exploiting Elisabeth’s vulnerabilities for profit.
This portrayal adds an unsettling layer of dark humor to the film.
Hugo Diego Garcia as Diego
Garcia joins the cast as Diego, an eccentric character swept up in Elisabeth’s chaotic transformation.
Though a supporting role, his performance adds to the film’s surreal, nightmarish atmosphere.
He perfectly complements the bizarre world that Fargeat brings to life on screen.
Gore Abrams as Oliver and Oscar Lesage as Troy
Both Abrams and Lesage play characters involved in Elisabeth’s life as she navigates the consequences of using “The Substance.”
Their roles bring additional tension to the plot, reflecting the ripple effects of Elisabeth’s choices on those around her.
What I liked about The Substance?
This movie is truly a work of art!
It’s brilliantly written, beautifully shot, and expertly acted.
You can tell an incredible amount of effort went into its creation. The prosthetics, in particular, are some of the best I’ve ever seen.
The casting of Margaret Qualley as the younger version of Demi Moore’s character was absolutely perfect, and the resemblance between the two is definitely noticeable.
For me, this is Demi Moore’s finest work yet. She completely nails the role and brings it to life.
The same goes for Margaret Qualley, she delivers an outstanding performance.
The visuals and cinematography are immediately striking; the film is beautifully shot from start to finish.
I also appreciated the film’s pacing.
Although it’s a body horror movie, the horrific scenes didn’t feel like they were there just to scare. Instead, they served to build a compelling backstory.
The sound design is exceptional, immersing you fully in Elisabeth’s perspective.
Since the film is shot from her point of view, you can practically hear what she hears and feel what she feels.
I experienced a full range of emotions from anger, sadness, joy, disgust, fear, anxiety, you name it!
Another aspect I enjoyed was how, even when I thought I knew where the story was headed, it always went a step beyond my expectations.
In light of today’s society, it’s refreshing to see a film that critiques and looks into the psychological and physical toll beauty standards can have on women.
What didn’t I like?
I worried initially that the movie’s 2-hour-and-20-minute runtime would feel too long. But once it began, I barely noticed the time passing!
You have to have a strong stomach to watch this movie.
Would I Recommend the Movie?
I highly recommend this movie! However, keep in mind that it’s a body horror film, so if you’re squeamish, you might find some scenes challenging to watch.
How would I rate this movie?
I would rate The Substance a 4.5 out of 5.
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