A new horror film has entered the market, and it’s making waves in social media and critic reviews. With a 91% on Rotten Tomatoes and raving viewer opinions, The Substance is a must watch for gore fans. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance follows the journey of Elizabeth Sparkle (played by Demi Moore), a fading TV star desperate to reclaim her youth and career in the competitive entertainment world. Once an icon on a popular fitness show, Elizabeth is now cast aside in an industry that values youth over experience. In a reach for relevance, she turns to a mysterious drug known as The Substance, which advertises a rejuvenated version of yourself in just three steps. This new persona created by The Substance, Sue (portrayed by Margaret Qualley), emerges as a perfect, younger alter-ego who quickly wins fame and adoration. Not everything works as easily as promised as the two are forced into an unsettling cycle of alternating control of Elisabeth’s life, which spirals into trepidation and psychological decay.

The visual style of filming is both haunting and grotesque. The use of close-ups and lighting highlights Elisabeth’s disintegration, making her torment visceral for viewers. The transformation scenes are especially striking, reflecting a commitment to special effects that amplify the undertones of the story. The film explores themes of identity, body image, and society’s obsession with youth through grotesque and surreal transformations, reminiscent of body-horror films. Although the gore was stomach turning at times, the realism within it was both impressive and nauseating. As Elizabeth and Sue’s existence become intertwined, a tense rivalry ensues, leading to increasingly horrific consequences. This sickening satire delves into Hollywood’s dark side with intense visuals, exploring the lengths people might go to escape aging and remain in the merciless public eye. For those interested in films that use symbolism and metaphors to reflect societal obsessions, The Substance is a compelling and memorable watch.

[Image Credit: Mubi]