The Substance

 

Coralie Fargeat's The Substance is body horror satire starring Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading aerobics star who, after being unceremoniously dumped by her chauvinistic boss, played by Dennis Quaid, resorts to a mysterious serum promising a younger, "better" version of herself.

The plot was uniquely visceral and unsettling as it dove deep into the dark heart of Hollywood's obsession with youth and the double standards faced by aging women. Initially I wasn’t sure how deep into the genera of body horror this would go but what ensued was a descent into grotesque, hyper realistic imagery that will certainly challenge any viewer's comfort zone.

For me, the film's strength lied in its unflinching portrayal of female anxieties surrounding aging, juxtaposed with the enduring privilege of men. Fargeat masterfully used the film's extreme visuals – including the reported 5,500 gallons of fake blood – to amplify the film's thematic core. The prosthetics were disturbingly effective, culminating in a final sequence that was as shocking as it was unforgettable. I was left wondering, "Who even dreams up something like this?"

The movie, while lacking diverse casting and featuring a mostly forgettable supporting characters, was notable for its strong female leadership in writing, directing and casting. Moore's performance was career-defining. She navigated a complex emotional landscape with raw vulnerability, showcasing a range I had not previously seen in her career. Margaret Qualley also delivered a phenomenal performance, further solidifying her status as a powerhouse actress deserving of more recognition.

While The Substance was undeniably unique and captivating, its extreme nature may not appeal to all audiences. It was a bold swing, and Demi Moore certainly deserved the praise for her commitment. Whether it's "Oscar-worthy" is debatable, but it was an undoubtedly memorable and thought-provoking piece of cinema. While I personally lean towards Cynthia Erivo's potential EGOT win for "Wicked," Moore's work here was undeniably impactful.

In the end I was left feeling like The Substance was a cautionary tale about the perils of chasing unattainable perfection. This film was an utterly bizarre experience that left me a bit confused and disturbed but also a bit impressed.