We NEED to Talk About THE SUBSTANCE | Movie Review

[@masudashizue777]

Horror is one thing. Quaid eating shrimp is another.

[@ImpressionBlend]

Truly!

[@amberlopez7477]

😂

[@lw6138]

Tru dat.

[@TorontoJon]

NOBODY looks good eating shrimp close up or cracking open lobster claws, etc. and don't get me started on how many men and women today have horrific table manners while holding knives and forks like surgical instruments as they struggle to cut a piece of steak. Their barbarism in restaurants or during dinner parties is just brutal to witness! Hahaha! :)

[@TorontoJon]

RANDY Quaid (Dennis Quaid's brother, a.k.a. Cousin Eddie from 'Vacation') eating shrimp would have been even worse! ;)

[@jackwilliamson1929]

That dragon robe is the real star of this film.

[@filmpositive6601]

I disagree about the ending going too far. I understand how the ridiculousness of the finale could have felt too over-the-top to you. However, I found the absurdity to be a great closer for the film, given how many insane visuals were building up to that point. To me, in a movie about severe extremes, this "final form" was necessary to show the end product of the main character's negative self-image and self-sabotage. The cycle of abuse reached its logical conclusion at the same time that we get the cathartic release of seeing it thrown back in the faces (literally) of some who, in a way, helped creat this "monster". I feel this last act coalesced all the film's themes and messaging into one glorious gooey crescendo!

[@LutzenkoAlexander]

I also think the third act was important for the whole film and her arc, she decided to go on stage anyway and face the audience in her new version, but it shows how society can be so utterly cruel I think in the end she accepted herself and the very final scene shows it when ⭐️

[@aallerton]

So well written! And I agree.

[@Ch50304]

It was too much, she threw so much blood like she was a fountain. It was creepy, and odd. They could have done something better.

[@filmpositive6601]

@Ch50304 Well, it is a "body" horror movie that was already unrealistically gross and bloody throughout its entire runtime leading up to the finale. So... I don't know what to tell ya. It comes down to different personal preferences, is all.

[@charlotteojuederie]

@@Ch50304I thought it was a perfect ending. A true blood bath. A true monster.

[@d_c_C]

I haven’t been this jaw dropped by a movie - horror or otherwise - in a very long time. This wasn’t just cinema; this was an experience !

[@ellie.nature]

Me too! 100%! 🙈😅

[@sladecl3537]

This was like a Darren Aronofsky film, reminds me so much of Mother!, Black swan and Requiem for a Dream. This was a much better movie though LOL 😊

[@spring802007]

People in cinema hall were stunned in silence during horror scenes lol !

[@molasorrosalom4846]

I had to look away when it came to the teeth and fingernails.

[@LutzenkoAlexander]

@@sladecl3537absolutely! It really reminded me of Requiem for a dream

[@MaeghaSundhesh]

This is the first review that talked about more than just 'beauty standards'. I think it is more interesting that Sue was still looking for Harvey's approval all along. This is a far better reflection of not just the industry, but of Elizabeth/Sue's values; she was part of the problem too. This was missed by a lot of critics, which makes the movie deeper yet entertaining. The end scene for me was very reminiscent of Sunset Boulevard.

[@MrJade2345]

YES!!! It felt so much like the iconic “Mr Demille I’m ready for my closeup” line. I’m glad someone else felt the same way. A star fading after one last grand performance.

[@Serryl]

I agree. At first I was disappointed in Sue and her desperate need to return to that same hallway and win Harvey's approval. Then I realized it was core to Elizabeth that she'd rather brutalize herself than give it up.

[@GG-kn2se]

It’s not a deeper meaning, it’s just the one you prefer. The ‘harm of self’ is a theme the director has highlighted over and over.

[@scino55]

Note that Elisabeth doesn't start a new Oscar-winning career when she becomes young again, no, she goes and gets her OLD job back. She doesn't want to be accomplished again, she wants to be DESIRABLE and DESIRED again. That's the only thing that gives her any sense of fulfillment.

[@stevenyoungkin7333]

@@GG-kn2se, great literature/cinema, can have alternate meanings to different people. Even if the author/filmmaker intended one thing, the audience might take an entirely different meaning from based on their background and experiences. This is an example of it. For some, it might be about beauty, others it could be about drugs, some--not loving yourself. Those are all valid interpretations and the fact that those and other meanings can be read to it shows how well made and well told this film is.

[@GenXVictoria]

When you are over 50, you’ll understand in a completely different context. The ending was purposely written the way it was… because it’s drawing us-the audience-into the mix. We’re not a voyeur, we’re part of the problem. In the end, the grotesque became the beautiful despite onlookers ogling. The film audience (through excellent camera work) is part of the problem. You’re right. Either you love it or hate it. But is detesting part of it a reflection of self-hatred? Only the participant can decide. I think this is going to create important conversations and what we saw was the visual representation of how violent we can be to ourselves, inside ourselves. Quaid’s acting showed: Men are allowed to be as gross as they want. They get a pass. They’re allowed to age. Sue shows she is soulless, as are many young people who don’t understand that aging is a privilege. Yet she is Elisabeth. Or is she? In the end, yes. The ugly and the soulless mix with the beauty and self-acceptance… the human condition. Fascinating film!

[@frankman2]

I agree. Many young people won't get that angle as viscerally as some of us over 50.

[@lw6138]

In the 80's and early 90s, Demi was a willing participant in her own objectification. Demi was considered ethereally beautiful for much longer than 15 minutes. She also had a visible obsession with staying young. Demi became a joke due to her resistance to aging gracefully. The significance of her being in this role can't be overstated. I also want to point out that the blood in the end covering all of those people to me is an indictment that EVERYONE has their part in the guilt.

[@leeslees65]

I picked up on the exact same about Demi - the sad irony of HER playing this role.

[@ericake88]

@@leeslees65ya but also cool that she accepted that roll. I love the way she talks about it too. Very open and honest.

[@legendre007]

_The Substance_ is not philosophically empty 🤔 but instead full of . . . substance. 😮

[@ImpressionBlend]

You could say the title speaks for itself...

[@chocolatewolfe]

The characters are completely empty, great performances but what do we learn about anyone in this film?

[@LutzenkoAlexander]

@@chocolatewolfefrom Elizabeth, one should stop abusing the substance and move on with their life when it’s not too late

[@gabrielloehleurbanohe6396]

Demi's acting really sparkles the movie

[@SCharlesDennicon]

Can you give us examples of that... philosophical substance?

[@Elwin-w3v]

You can also interpret the relationship between younger and older version as mother and daughter relationship dynamics.

[@quandrixtwincaster5738]

Being a huge fan of Peter Jackson's 1992 film "Braindead" (or "Dead Alive"), the last act of the movie was pure gold to me. It got as crazy as it needed to. The entire movie felt like something Junji Ito would have made. Fantastic movie, but hard to recommend to just anyone.

[@ImpressionBlend]

Agreed. It’s definitely not for everyone.

[@sabrinatiffany45]

I’m obsessed with that movie !!!!!! I thought I was the only one who liked that one 😂

[@tonybennett4159]

I thought that the gore fest with a rotary mower worked in Braindead because Jackson had his tongue in his cheek from the beginning of the movie, so there was a natural progression in the gross-out element that was leavened by the humour. There is no room for the similar blood bath at the end of The Substance, it is completely out of synch and just doesn't work, and neither does the Thing type amalgamation monster either, where I think the director lacked discipline which even in a movie like this needs to be respected for it to achieve its fullest impact. Could have done with trimming too, horror movies are at their best when short and sharp.

[@chenenid2011]

omg I said the exact same thing walking out the theatre. the walking blob of face is so Junji Ito!!!

[@Pyrrho_]

​@@tonybennett4159it's as if the director was going for a reaction in mind but lacked the skill in which to present it in a better way that fits with the rest of the presentation better.

[@AlexC-dr1vk]

This movie is arguably one of the best horror movies ive seen. Easily top 10 for me

[@ImpressionBlend]

Nice! Glad you loved it! What are some of your other favorites?

[@enigmatics69]

At minimum, the best horror move of the 2020s

[@philipjoseph5099]

Well, you haven't seen much horror then

[@Shionshowa]

@@hmicky-mickey?

[@dylangintherofficial]

@@philipjoseph5099ive seen almost any horror film you can mention. Lol. Every day i watch at least 2-3 new horror films Every day From every generation of filmmaker This film absolutely hits top 10 horror films of the past decade Point blank period lol i dont give a shit what u think personally From a technical standpoint Its one of the best of the past decade point blank period

[@kirdot2011]

this movie is worth watching just to feel something at the cinema.

[@pokeybloke7237]

Great comment and Damn right. 👏 Most movie releases these days are pretty thin and generic. Gimme something different every time! 😎👍

[@b.pack3]

Megalopolis and Joker 2 are TRASH.

[@JackieMartin1974]

Oh yeah.. the shrimp eating scene... his discolored teeth... almost close up shot of him. Loved it.

[@ImpressionBlend]

This comment did not end the way I thought it was going to end...

[@garrymugen486]

@@ImpressionBlend lol

[@ericake88]

@@ImpressionBlendhaha he probably meant loved it because it was successful in what the scene was intending to do.

[@Pakistani_Dramas_Channel]

Hitchcock and twilight zone already explored this theme in the 1960s , without the bloodshed

[@Locarb]

We certainly do need to talk about The Substance, Marianna. What in the hell was that? all I know is, I loved it! Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley were phenomenal.

[@victoriaaydelott6187]

I just watched. Accurate review! Demi looked flippin insanely gorgeous working out!

[@lucianogalvez5865]

First time I ever hear a critic (or in this case, a woman herself) pointing out that even though societal pressure exists (and I totally take this film's message), it is a personal choice to either bend over backwards in order to adhere to them, and to build one's life and value based on them... or just not. Blaming all on the patriarchy or society is dodging one's own accountability and autonomy for our own choices. Demi Moore's character brings this balance brilliantly to the screen. Great review!

[@TCENTARUS]

The Patriarchy Does not Exist. Just another way For Modern Women to Blame all their problems on Men. Total Bullcrap.

[@scarba]

The fact that it’s a French woman that created the movie is relevant because French women age naturally and reject the Hollywood fakery

[@tamiewert808]

Are you a woman?

[@amberlopez7477]

The movie is disgustingly sad. I felt bad for Demi Moores character. I thought of Madonna, when watching the film. Would she go back in time and decide not disfigure herself, if she could? Even Dennis Quaud had too many face jobs.

[@jackcarterful]

I Thought of Madonna to.

[@lapacesiaconvoi]

a rabbi told me Madonna used the kabala to access the fountain of youth, but she had not been successful in her endeavor. going through with whatever the process is, if it is done incorrectly, the opposite happens.

[@El_oh7199]

The close needle injections were the least squirm inducing moments. I think Fargeat was challenging the audience to look at the ugliest and malformed transformations with the same focus as the earlier shots that linger on Sue's body parts.

[@simplyrowen]

That moment when she’s getting ready for NYE, getting back in the Cinderella dress… **SPOILERS AHEAD** …and can’t figure out where to put the earring; it both made the audience in my viewing laugh, and emit sounds of “awe”, and evident pity. I did too. The moment is perfectly comedic, while tragic, because you realize how much worse she ended from where she started. How she didn’t need to touch a thing (which is something we often say of the women who undergo plastic surgery, especially if they ended up botched). She too, did this to herself, when it wasn’t necessary. This is also the moment, where she finally accepts herself, and perhaps even sees herself as pretty, trying to style her 5 hairs with the flat iron. She waltzes in the studio, ready to be embraced, although this is the absolute worst she’s ever looked. Man, you can really go on and on dissecting this movie. I want to watch it again and buy it when it’s available for purchase.

[@2bsure]

I've watched every review since watching the movie last night. This is the best review of all I've seen. You hit the nail on the head perfectly.

[@konyoutube9]

I don’t often watch movie reviews but I had to get my head round the substance 😅 this was a very well thought out analysis and you echoed a lot of my own feelings about the movie. an unforgettable one for sure 😂 i wasn’t sure how people would feel about this movie after the third act bc the rest of the movie was so strong, i sorta accepted we’d just gone into slightly campy parody-of-itself territory but i’m kind of okay with it as the big finale. anyways this vid gets a sub from me!

[@Llewellyn2844]

Criticizing the third act for being "excessive" is absurd. The whole point of a body horror film is that it's SUPPOSED to go way over the top at the end. For example, see the classic anime film AKIRA (1988), which begins as a cyberpunk action movie and ends as a delirious body horror nightmare.

[@jeremyterkelsen2518]

Have you seen the movie yet? I’m in to body horror but the end of this movie is just ridiculously bad. The writing and the plot just go out the window.

[@Llewellyn2844]

@@jeremyterkelsen2518 As many have noted, this is a divisive film. Some will love it and others will hate it. You're clearly one of the haters.

[@Starr_Apathy]

​@@jeremyterkelsen2518It really isn't at all.

[@jeremyterkelsen2518]

@@Llewellyn2844 It sounds like you’re saying I hate it for no reason at all, which isn’t true. Just because a movie has been labeled as “divisive” doesn’t mean it can’t be criticized in good faith.

[@jeremyterkelsen2518]

@@Starr_Apathy Well that’s just your opinion man, I disagree

[@hunghan2952]

One of the best deep dive of the movie. I especially like how it points out that Elisabeth has no meaningful relationship to anyone and how the movie trying to tell people that there is more to life than being young and relevant.

[@MasonDixie]

A brilliant audiovisual masterpiece. Pure cinema at its finest. My favorite movie of the year.

[@nileshollowthorn]

I absolutely adore this movie and I think I’ve been waiting for a film to go as far as the ending to this one did. It was so insane and jaw-dropping and weird that I couldn’t help but applaud and cheer at the end. I thought it was hilarious and the film wouldn’t be complete without it. More of this please!

[@Lordmij]

Demi deserves an Oscar for her performance

[@palinode]

The last act went way over the top, but by the time it reached the Carrie-esque ending, I was completely on board again. It was like Sunset Boulevard meets Existenz.

[@ninaalfa797]

I was completely captivated from the moment the two selves started fighting. The blood scene was over the top good , I LOVED this movie

[@biguy617]

Give Demi Moore the Oscar for this movie. She deserves it.

[@lapacesiaconvoi]

her character was still beautiful, and she couldn't see it. the show's producer damaged her confidence. i never saw dennis quaid portray a slimy, gross character before. they had to play down his looks and could have gotten another actor.

[@TheAnadrome]

Thanks Marianna. Excellent review as always. You know I went to see The Substance last night with a couple of friends. And as I was waiting for them I realized that there used to be a split between Hollywood and Indie productions. But at some point the large projects seemed dominated by endless superheroes and increasingly lackluster fantasy films and predictably postmodern indie films. Some foreign films filled the gap. Then after streaming arrived the only things left standing were superheroes.... and horror! But now it seems that more and more horror films are also low to mid-budget experimental films. And this is quite curious. It fits the definition of what Virginia Wilson (The Secret Lives of Puppets) called the subzeitgeist. Film Noir was a post WW2 subzeitgeist. Exploitation in the 70s was one as well. And actually in the 70s many strange experimental films and extremely edgy foreign films were consumed by popular audiences. Think Eraserhead, Salo, El Topo, Valerie and Her Week of Wonders, Let's Scare Jessica to Death, WR: Mysteries of the Organism, THX 1138, Pink Flamingos, Sweet Movie, The Man Who Fell to Earth, God Told Me To, etc. etc.) Meanwhile back in 2024 I told my Georgian philosopher friend and his American girlfriend that essentially horror has become the most legitimate place for public showings of edgy and experimental films. And after sitting through The Substance they both understood exactly what I was saying. And I thought of all of the films from the last ten years that could be considered experimental or extremely edgy. Think: The Babadook, The Witch, The Lighthouse, Hereditary, Midsommar, Beau Is Afraid, Longlegs, Infinity Pool, Men, Titane, Raw, Suspiria 2018, Pearl, X, Stopmotion, Climax, Skinamarink, and I could go on and on. And let's not forget the tone of some of the more standard horror films. I'm not talking of the quality of the films here as much as I am pointing to a mode of communication not allowed in mainstream and even other kinds of Indie fare. This is the basement of our fears in this most unstable era we now live in. Strangely these highly disturbing films are a sign of the flickering candles of imaginative and intellectual hope burning down below the observable mainstream threshold. Marianna thanks for being one of my best guides through the subterranean cellars in the subzeitgeist.

[@QUANTUMJOKER]

In my review for next week's paper, I describe The Substance as 'almost like if David Cronenberg directed a feminist Gremlins' (given the film's heavy focus on rules and side-effects). I LOVED The Substance, and it is indeed in my top five of the year so far. :D I thought the ending may have gone too far, but I still enjoyed it, and it felt like an Elephant Man-plus-Carrie-esque crescendo of Harvey's objectifying industry reaping what it sowed in the most grotesque way possible. The camera does show off Margaret Qualley's body at every opportunity, but to me this framing carried a sort of Frankensteinian irony. Sue is incredibly sexy, but her sexiness is the result of a macabre drug and procedure, and even before she steals so much time from Elisabeth and mutates her in the process, Sue effectively betrays Elisabeth by playing into the youth-obsessed culture that left Elisabeth in the dirt.

[@MFYouTube683]

❤ Love this review! It is the only one to touch on what I found the most central aspects of the character and how it develops. I’m glad you bring up the last section, it was too much for me as well but it doesn’t feel off, I feel it’s the end that makes it what it is. I think it’s _a lot_ but it’s terrific

[@rosamariabest6069]

I thought it had Death Becomes Her vibes as well. It even has the instructions of taking care of your body. I also thought of the Batman The Animated Series episode "feet of clay". The more skin cream Clayface used, the more his body became a gooey mass.

[@saly4762]

So I watched it and the last 20 minutes are disgusting and disturbing some people left the theater. I had to close my eyes alot tbh coz damn 😮

[@amberlopez7477]

😂

[@sladecl3537]

Really? Did they? I saw it theatres as well but I was up near the front so couldn't see anyone leaving the theatre

[@cptclown2110]

Excellent review. All anyone talks about is the movie being a critique of modern beauty standards. I'm far more interested hearing that the message is deeper than that

[@diegocardona7337]

I feel like people are focusing WAYYYY too much on the point of the movie, HOWEVER, we are missing out on the point that the execution was absolutely flawless, just the right dose of elements, from start to finish, perfection. It had a start and it had an end, no plain moments, a little bit of horror, laugh, gore, body whatever, entertainment, we should respect and commend that.

[@jennypeck1186]

I watched it this morning….probably would’ve been better for a late night or late afternoon watch. I absolutely LOVE body horror but 30 minutes after I woke up….I had to put my coffee down & I do NOT get squeamish but it got me! The make up effects were incredible but the sound editing….whew that took it to the next level! Both actresses were PHENOMENAL!! Seeing Demi Moore in a movie like this was the cherry on top of this bloody disgusting sundae! She was amazing. In a movie dealing w themes like this kudos to her for going full frontal at 61 looking better than most half her age!! Dennis Quaid was so disgusting & did a great job as well!! Im really looking forward to more from this director. Revenge was a good movie too

[@xsomeNOOBx]

Saw it last night and was really rapt by everything up until the 3rd act which had me laughing it was so absurd (actually enjoyable) but the tonal shift and lack of building with the themes of the movie really did lower the overall experience of it. I would love to see a version of the movie where they stick to the tone of the first two acts and amp things up just a bit.

[@SiStockbridge]

I loved every second including the 3rd act. The Substance gets a 10/10 from me, but I might be a bit bias as i'm a big fan of this kind of stuff

[@KalvinMauveMusic]

I just came back from watching this in a Movie theater in Taiwan with only 4 other people (3 couples). I actually took some anti anxiety medication with me in case I got freaked out. I am very similar about needles and skin. I had to turn away even before the infections. IT Got better and better for me and I ended up laughing and going "EWW" Real loud. Toward the end I thought I was watching a MADONNA documentary. I HAVEN'T looked away SHUDDERED LAUGHED SO MUCH. Good review.

[@shurik121]

"It goes too far in the third act" is a huge understatement. It's not difficult to figure out how exactly it will go wrong once you know what the premise is, but I never expected the last half an hour. I thought it would end at certain point that happens towards the end, but then the movie got to that point and shot beyond it into the stratosphere. I loved the experience of watching it and I'm glad the creative forces behind the movie were not afraid to go as far as they went with it. It is definitely something special, we don't get movies like that very often.

[@yetidetective]

I normally like to take edibles and go to a horror movie, so I can get as scared as possible. There is always a point near the beginning of the film where both the drugs and the film are beginning to escalate in intensity where I have a sort of giddy little anxiety that says, "what if this one is finally too much for me and I lose my sanity forever?" and this one legit almost did it. I loved this movie. The dread was exquisite. I had a 15 minute walk home from the theater, and I was having a panic attack the entire way.

[@biguy617]

I love the third act. It was over done but it works for the content of the movie.

[@aoldotcom]

After the movie, I spent some time talking about it with a friend and just cried. To me, it was about self image. Self love. Acceptance of self. Something I’ve struggled with my whole life (thanks to an intense religious upbringing). The scene where Sue and Elisabeth are fighting made me tear up. It was so sad. And so fucking relatable. Would I attack myself if I met myself? I might. Ive tried so long to kill some “thing” inside myself that I deem ugly or bad.

[@leeslees65]

Your assertion is why it's so very important that we focus on Jesus; not religion. Nowhere in scripture does God push hate of self or others. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Jesus, himself, even warns against the trappings of religion in Matthew 23:1. Find a church that focuses on the Bible; not rituals and traditions. I pray you find your way back to Jesus. Our time is short. ❤

[@bricaaron3978]

*"Something I’ve struggled with my whole life (thanks to an intense religious upbringing)."* To me this is a _non sequitur._ Do you mind elaborating?

[@michellescully2603]

I can’t see how somebody would not just absolutely love the end! When it all is going into chaos. Our theater people were literally app plotting the screen because it was so beautiful. That whole style is very reminiscing of like Suspiria. It was a beautiful work of art.

[@kodyvannah7858]

I love the third act! I totally agree with you it felt a little unhinged from the rest but I think that even further pushes it. No one could escape from what she created and they all had to bathe in the consequences of that until something changed in the main character again. That was her worst nightmare that she created.

[@kodyvannah7858]

Edit: idk why I was spacing the word spectacle😂

[@LutzenkoAlexander]

They all wanted to see her, well she delivered 😅

[@jeromemoore2097]

'there is more to life than physical beauty and youth'..Spot on..

[@GareBare90]

This. THIS! I can't wait to see this! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@solidsnake58]

I have a toxic senior mother and an older sister and the scene where Demi Moore watching Margaret Qualley on TV and making jealous bitter comments hit close to home. This film is dealing with a lot of different themes.

[@fieuline2536]

Loved this movie. It made me think a lot about “hustle culture” and reminded me of movies like Black Swan and Whiplash, where the character has to destroy something essential about themselves to achieve their ambitions. If I could separate all my unlovely parts - the parts that don’t want to get out of bed, that is awkward to strangers, that eats a carton of ice cream - would I be kind to it? I think there’s often deep unkindness towards oneself at the bottom of self-help culture. What’s especially interesting is how that self-loathing isn’t something Elisabeth would have necessarily if she were surviving alone on an island. Her self-loathing is an internalization of other people’s view of her. I’ve heard “Hell is other people” a lot as a truism, but this is the first movie that made me FEEL that. I disagree about the ending just because it was fun to watch. The descent into madness was CATHARTIC and cool. I didn’t really need it to make sense. Thank you for your review! It was lovely getting to hear someone else’s thoughts on this movie.

[@bobdobbz9334]

Interesting you mention Black Swan and not Requiem for a Dream. But I see it.

[@DarkPrince784]

Going to see this tomorrow and I'm excited! This is a bit off topic but where did you get the music for the outro? It's very John Carpenter-esque.

[@lordcrayzar]

What an ending!

[@bruh_hahaha]

Thoughtful and well-reviewed as usual. 🍿

[@nondompom]

Did it go to far ? Hell No !! It contained just the precise amount of horror. If it stopped short, it would've diminished the film and its leading characters.

[@Elephant2024-wi2li]

Definitely going to check this out. Was wondering Marianna, since we are in Halloween spooky season if you could possibly do a horror recommendation list video. It has been a while since we have been treated to one of your lists. Thanks for your channel.🎃

[@ImpressionBlend]

I will definitely be doing a bunch of Halloween content, so stay tuned!

[@giodhuha6771]

I just recently watched this few days ago and i have to say The Substance is the wildest movie i've ever seen in my entire life. Storyline so original and refreshing even for horror genre, practical and visual effects are on another level. 100% recommended and deserves much love in awards consideration this season!

[@thebrentrobinsonshow2882]

I might have to check this out. Demi Moore is very talented.

[@ignacio633]

Omg! I thought I was the only one thinking the 3rd act was way too much. To me it almost ruined the entire movie experience. Don’t get me wrong the first and second act is so good but that third act felt out of place. It’s like they were making a totally different movie. Thanks for the review. 👌👌

[@00sinders]

I absolutely loved it, and agree with you mostly here. There was a point where I think the film could have ended differently and been a bit more subtle (before the final transformation) and when it didn't I was thinking "oh no, don't blow it now". But then it went on...and on... and I was back onboard for the sheer audacity of the final 20 mins! I'd give it 9/10 losing one mark for a slightly confusing scene (when Sue starts "going wrong" on camera but then is promoted) and perhaps needing a tighter cut to reduce the long running time. Strong contender for my favourite film of the year, and indeed the last few years.

[@frankman2]

Maybe they could have cut that scene out. It was a bit confusing. Some people think it added to the movie. All the men ogling her behind on repeat close-up.

[@laurabittman6799]

Thank you for the thoughtful review. Glad to hear that Demi Moore is good and keeping the edge she has in some of her past role choices.

[@ImpressionBlend]

Thank you! Yes, she is excellent in this, I hope this is the beginning of a comeback

[@simonf8902]

She never seems to pay for the Substance.

[@michaelespeland]

Oh she pays alright

[@simonf8902]

@@michaelespeland true. True.

[@frankman2]

thank you. everybody calling it a black market drug. but I guess it's shorter than explaining the whole thing.

[@theniteowl7007]

probably because she was the test subject.

[@klitoria.lippie]

The Substance is ADRENOCHROME

[@MsBlueRyans]

I had a suspicion it was about that.

[@DecimalD_]

I think I agree with everything you said about this movie. The 3rd act was completely ridiculous. It went too far and it was about 20-30min too long. But it was still an unforgettable experience. Im having a hard time rating it and recommending it though. It was hard to watch, but so unique and I’m glad I experienced it lol.

[@ellie.nature]

Brilliant review.😉 I'm still speechless after watching this movie. Found it so over the top at the end that it was funny. I think it's important to say that this is NOT a horror scary film but it definitely leaves the viewer in shock or on a "high"... It's worth going to the cinema just to see the faces of people when they come out! Priceless.🤣

[@bloodywasted]

Unhinged, stylistic and references so many classic horror films, Society, Re-animator, The Fly, Irreversible… without milking them! Quite clever really, how the film taps into our nostalgia! Loved it, and was almost a perfect film, apart from the last 20 mins kinda messed it up! But still one of my favourites of the year. Great review, enjoyed it. 🖤

[@concentricvoid]

I just saw The Substance yesterday, and I loved it. I liked the final act of the film, but I'm also a big fan of Brian Yuzna's Society movie. I'm mostly a horror oriented fan, and the next film I'm looking forward to is Terrifier 3. Thank you for your great review! I appreciate your insights.

[@shubhangbahadur7112]

This film resonated with me in more ways than I could've imagined.

[@lifewriter7455]

The SUBSTANCE is INSANELY good. Go WATCH IT! 🖤😎👍

[@susanalfieri4487]

Love this review. I'm trying so hard to stay spoiler free for this film, while at the same time wanting to devour everything about it. Thank you for incisive commentary without ruining it for those of us who've yet to see it.

[@mbeenz]

I Had Not Been to a Theater since 2009, and My Wife’s Girlfriend had seen this Film a couple of days ago. AND SAID IT WAS A WILD RIDE! I’m a Big Fan of Body Horror! Then reading some of these Comments I said , this is for Me! And we went to see it! Great camera Work, Great Acting, Brilliant Editing, it was completely OVER THE TOP!! Was way more than I EXPECTED!! Iv seen A lot of Body Horror Films dating back to the70s! And this one Took it to A WHOLE NEW LEVEL! GO SEE IT! Now! And Be Sure To Fasten YOUR SEATBELT!

[@marcusistic]

Does the movie play into the fact that Demi Moore has already had extensive "work" done in real life.....?

[@ImpressionBlend]

I mean... they don't address it, but it makes sense within the story - she resorts to a black market "better self" drug after all

[@marcusistic]

@@ImpressionBlend Ah right okay. It looks like an interesting watch anyway..... x

[@frankman2]

@@ImpressionBlend Everybody is calling it "black market" drug but I didn't see her having to make any financial transaction. It's just a mystery source.

[@ImpressionBlend]

@@frankman2 because that's what the official synopsis says

[@frankman2]

@@ImpressionBlend Oh. Ok. Still I would call it a mysterious source. Thanks for answering.

[@AJLovesMC12]

That movie was wild! I loved Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley delivered spectacular performances.🤩🙌🏽🔥

[@horrorcinemaclub]

Thanks a lot for reviewing! You go into such depth & are by far my favorite reviewer. Hopefully we can get some more horror reviews for October!

[@ImpressionBlend]

Thank you so much! Lots of plans for October 😈

[@CHRISTOPHER-1793-z9e]

The most fun I've had at the cinema in ages. An absolute riot. I hope the director doesn't take so long before her next film. She's 2 for 2 with me. Sold out screenings, no walkouts as far as I could see.

[@ImpressionBlend]

Honestly, if long breaks is what it takes for her to keep delivering great horror - it's worth the wait.

[@opinion56]

Looks like alot of seats open in my theaters for saturday night and I dont like that because I want a crowd. I dont want to see this movie with my group alone

[@torjer9712]

H. R. Giger: necrotic machines that look like human body. This movie: human body that looks like necrotic machine.

[@cindibrown6160]

Sue is Elizabeth - the younger version of herself - essentially its also a take about internalized self hate - and how as a society we don't value women as they age.. something experienced by all women after they turn 30...fantastic film

[@NBP722]

I really don’t like body horror, but I’m super curious about the final 30 minutes of the film 😅

[@krzysztofs3t532]

The last 30 minutes was the most important. It was like a nightmare when you can't wake up, it just keeps going and it is going worse and worse. Beside that I feel this movie has few endings (like "Hopscotch" by Cortazar) - one when Elizabeth kills Sue, second when Sue Kills Elizabeth, third when the abomination is born, etc.

[@rarevidz100]

so thrilling.. I need movies like this, so unpredictable

[@andreisteopan3551]

There is another layer beyond beauty: addiction. If you consider the substance as being drugs or alcohol (mostly referred to as substances in real life) it keeps making sense: it does transforms you into a "better" version of yourself and you still neeed to sober up to your former self every now and then. And yes, it also takes an iriversable toll on you both phsically and mentally and there is no coming back from that unless you either find a ballence or terminate the addiction completely. Take care of yourself and keep your friend close, show them this movie if they are strugglling. 🤗

[@LegPuppy]

My fav film of the past few years. Utterly unapologetic! Panos Cosmatos couldn't have directed it any better!

[@konowd]

I think the point of the last act is it’s totally out of control and goes too far, it’s so outrageous you practically have to laugh at it it’s so insane

[@sirtorchington]

I agree the final act went a bit absurd, but when I thought back on the rest of the movie most of it felt to me to be in a pretty heightened state anyway; like it’s all kinda nightmarish, with just enough grounding to make you think it’s real. The end maybe goes a bit too far but I think it works for the what the film is saying. Brilliant film either way!!

[@artistathlete6525]

Dennis in this film, is like watching the Orange Raccon on speech times.

[@sow1084]

Great video. "Inconsistent within the world of the movie itself" It didnt make me feel any sort of revenge on me. Like Tarantino does. For me the end was kinda childish.

[@LivinNexus]

✨My wife and I saw this last night! We had a blast!! It was only us and five other people in the theater, but we all clapped at the end! 🥹

[@ImpressionBlend]

Aww that's a bit sad there weren't more people, but I'm glad all of you loved it!

[@LivinNexus]

@@ImpressionBlend Agreed lol 🤣 Hopefully the word to mouth goes around and the movie gets some well-deserved attention. Like it or not, you can't deny that it's quite an unforgettable ride! 🤯

[@510SPINESPLITTA8]

I wish the first trek down the hallway in monster form wasn’t a hallucination. I thought they were going to portray Hollywood denizens as brainless sycophants and that would have been extremely funny.

[@juancarlosgonzalez800]

One of the few movies i've seen were the hype was real. This was an insane but worthwhile experience. There was much more to the movie than "unrealistic beauty standards bad" as you mentioned, and you pretty much nailed it, it was also about not loving yourself enough and giving in to the social pressure. The ending i personally liked that it went balls to the walls crazy, but it was also surprisingly straightforward, which is not a bad thing. Overall, the movie works because of the commitment and vision of the director and its stars. 9/10 for me

[@AhBeeDoi]

The last act definitely went beyond the distance, but I don't have a problem with it.

[@frankman2]

There are a few nods to Kubrick movies. So the third act was for me like the ending of 2001: The brief "psychedelic lights" scene, the classic 2001 score on stage. The moment she goes in the studio for the last time you already know that the movie is now in another dimension and it's not supposed to make any "logical" sense. Just enjoy the trip.

[@stabbyjosh7931]

I liked your description of the film as Dorian Grey via Cronenberg, with a splash of death becomes her. But you are missing a important part. That is all true, but its also told through a series of homage to the great moments of body horror. There were many scenes in the movie, taken straight from other movies like "the Fly", "society", "The Shining", "Video Drone". Heck, there was a obvious call back to the real Joseph Merrick. And while the homage to the classics is fantastic. Some scenes will seem more disconnected than others. And that mosaic effect, is just the par for the course.

[@sonicgoo1121]

I'm usually not a big fan of references, as it's a cheap way of seeming smart. But in this case I get the feeling the references were deployed very deliberately. The fly as a warning of what's to come. The Shining carpet pointing to the maddening world of Hollywood. And, to avoid spoilers, THAT reference at the end.

[@Howard6461]

George Constanta eating in Seinfeld episodes 😂😂😂

[@scottthemoviecritic8576]

Excellent review Marianna. Really enjoyed it. I’m hearing a lot of great things about this film. I’m definitely interested in checking it out for sure. Heard it’s absolutely mental as well. Haha.🤣👍

[@thesilentknight4554]

Margaret Qualley will ALWAYS be Maid! My favorite role of hers. I don't cry often, but that series chocked me up & she deserved a giant hug😢 Demi Moore is stunning! She never needed the substance, ever! She needed a true loving companion to lift her spirits and say, HEY! you're perfect to me. Just as you are. Alas she didnt. What a tragedy! Ending definitely became a monster movie. I was waiting for someone with a flamethrower to appear😮🔥

[@PROBOT-pv6ez]

Good review. Small note: The top billed cast member can't "steal the show". Demi Moore IS the show. It could be stolen from her by somebody else. But it wasn't.

[@drdavid1963]

I think you're spot on, Marianna. Had to wait to see the film before watching this video. It is absolutely riveting, mainly for the execution of the premise (as you say, with its visual style and sound design) and you can see the relationship between Elizabeth and Sue will be the focus of the film as it develops But that third act, as you say, as much as it channels Carrie, Society, Elephant Man, Braindead and a bit of Dead Ringers and The Thing as it will satisfy gorefest horror fans, it sort of dimishes everything we've seen before as if the themes it has raised should not be taken seriously and we should luxuriate in an absurd comedic bloodbath which, in itself, is, of course, a critique on the grotesquerie of consumerism itself but not a very intelligent one. And, as you say, it outstays its welcome. For me, it was the easiest, most predictable way to end the film and it's a shame but, for the singular vision and style of the filmmaker it's an ambitious, memorable and entertaining enterprise.

[@ralphvanz.7925]

It was my favorite Cannes screening of the year a couple of months ago.

[@ShameckWalczynski]

One of the best films this year but definitely not for everyone 😑

[@ImpressionBlend]

Agreed, but also it's more fun that way

[@zachpajak7493]

BRILLIANT REVIEW!!! You articulate the themes perfectly. I'm surprised that this is actually my favorite movie of the year so far, supplanting 'Challengers' -- surprised because I flippin hate needles! Also I actually kinda loved the third act lol -- the audience I was in was also enthralled by the whole movie, lots of fun reactions. GREAT review to a great film.

[@ImpressionBlend]

Thank you! I totally get it! It's such an insane, memorable experience, and such a blast to see with other people.

[@rrb413]

It was hard for me to look away. I wanted to stop watching but I couldn’t 🤦🏾‍♀️ Demi was amazing ❤