The Substance (2024)

The Substance

• I have been surprised many times after seeing a movie I knew very little about. That’s a reason why I don’t always watch trailers. I think I also saw the trailer for this one only once, and didn’t remember much about it. I said, “Oh, that looks interesting,” and that was the end of that thought. And I'm glad I didn’t remember much. Cause this movie ROCKS. Even my vague idea didn’t prepare me for what I was about to witness. I can’t remember the last time I felt this disgusted by a movie, in the same kind of way you get disgusted by ‘Saw’ or something. It wasn’t a scary movie, but it makes you squirm so much. I felt so uncomfortable and almost even squeamish at times. Body horror is so back. It’s such a simple story that goes much deeper than you think it will. The movie did feel a little long, but by the time you finish, you’re glad it did. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the overuse of the female body in this (no offense to females), and a few scenes felt a bit much with showing certain things. But I understand why it was done that way. And the performances from Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid were absolutely amazing. I don’t think this movie would’ve worked with anyone else. And the best part of the movie? Obviously the makeup and practicality. There’s very little CGI involved, which I loved. That’s the reason it felt so sickening, but everything looked and felt so real. Especially towards the end. Holy crap. That’s one of the greatest bits of cinema I’ve seen in a LONG time. I won’t say anymore, because I don’t want to give anything else away. If you get a chance to see this in theaters, you need to. Trust me. You’re missing out if you don’t. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!