THE SUBSTANCE
Starring: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid
Director: Coralie Fargeat
QUENTIN
If you get squeamish with gross body-horror imagery and flat-out disgusting noises, The Substance isn’t for you. However, for those unbothered by such things, director Coralie Fargeat delivers a hilariously audacious commentary on Hollywood ageism and the impossible beauty standards women must deal with. Demi Moore — in a brilliant bit of meta casting — gives a fearless performance that should kickstart a career comeback, while a never-been-sexier Margaret Qualley continues to show why she is one of the most in-demand young actresses working today. Despite an ending that goes on for too long, between this and Revenge, Fargeat has reached “Event Director” status in the horror genre.
NICK
The Substance is the latest film from director David Cronen... Psych! This feature is directed by Coralie Fargeat, and although there certainly is a Cronenberg feel at times, she makes it all her own. Exploring themes of mortality, self-confidence, and desperation, Fargeat tells a story that’s surprisingly relatable. Demi Moore is given a chance to strut her stuff for the first time in years, while Margaret Qualley lives up to exactly what her character needed to be. As for the body horror aspects, this still would have been a good movie without it, but it takes things to another level in the most wonderful ways.
ADRIANO
Dear God, Coralie Fargeat, you absolute mad woman. The Substance is insane. While the film features not one ounce of subtlety, its in-your-face approach winds up contributing to the primal enjoyment of this treat of a film. The execution is unique and fun as hell from the get-go, but towards the end, as it plunges itself deeper into madness, I couldn't keep my jaw off the floor because of the prosthetic work and overall insanity of the situation. It may not be the most effective message on beauty standards, but a one-of-a-kind blast nonetheless.
PAIGE
Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance may be one of the greatest body horror films I’ve ever seen! It’s an in-your-face type of movie that tackles Hollywood's beauty standards head-on. From a technical standpoint, this movie is flawless, featuring stellar sound design, fantastic practical makeup effects, and a unique framework, not to mention a career-best performance from Demi Moore. All in all, this satire is batshit crazy in the best way possible. The only thing holding this audacious piece of art back from being perfect is its over-the-top final act.
PRESTON
Have you ever seen videos of “The Hurricane Shot;” where the victim takes a shot, gets water thrown in their face, and is then slapped by some baddie bartender? Well, leaving The Substance felt like I did about five of those in a row. It is a masterfully daring film, featuring Demi Moore (Elisabeth Sparkle) and Margaret Qualley (Sue) on full, courageously brilliant display. The effects, makeup, and sound coalesce into a perfect symphony of grotesque horror. The film devolves in a tragic final act, but director Coralie Fargeat has earned, sight-unseen, must-watch status on her next effort.
This film was reviewed by Quentin, Nick, and Adriano as part of Bitesize Breakdown's coverage of the 2024 Cannes Film Festival and 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, respectively.