The Substance - Why I didn't love this film | Movie Review -

[@KyleCorwith]

The thing about the movie is that, to me, it’s a modern dark fairy tale-in the vein of Grimm’s fairy tales. The outlandish and grotesque progressions and choices the characters make, when viewed through that lens, make sense. It’s one of the best of the year in my view.

[@CynsCorner]

A lot of people love this film a lot. I wish I could have clicked more with it.

[@gawarlock4148]

So, there are a number of details which I think the producers tried to do, but I think there was a slight miss on the intention! Really really interesting movie. Psychologically really interesting.

[@masudashizue777]

One final word. If Hollywood can still come up with interesting, original works such as this instead of depending on an already-established franchise, there's hope for it yet.

[@barbe-rose]

Well that's the thing, it wasn't made by Hollywood lol. It's basically a french movie

[@SuperMarioBrosIII]

@@barbe-rose Ellen told us about this on her talk show before she retired LOL!👸🪞🧟‍♀🌹

[@corellicorelli]

It's not original either: it's based on an old cheap movie called "the rejunevator", available for free here on KZbin

[@galfriday1519]

I agree that many things were inconsistent. But what made the least sense to me was that, although they made the point repeatedly that they were one person, they obviously didn.t share each others cnciousness or experiences. Demi's character slept for a week and then ate and watched tv and was jealous of Margaret's character's life. There was no benefit for her so why would she do it? Why would anyone? Also, while I loved the body horror of The Fly and The Thng, I laughed out loud at that creature at the end. It was just very funny.

[@Talkinnerdy1]

Hmm it was interesting to hear the opinion of someone who didn't like it. Personally I loved every minute! When something is this over the top I stop thinking "could that really happen here?" I thought it was cool that it could be that totally bonkers and actually keep the message intact. Thanks for the reveiw!

[@CassHoskins]

I agree that I was ready for the movie to be over by the end, I liked the concept and the film looked amazing, the cinematography and art direction were fantastic, but in the end I would have liked the film to dig in deeper to the central premise, instead of going all in on the grotesque. As woman in her 50’s I’m here for a movie that talks about the central theme, but this wasn’t it! Though in its defence, I am still thinking about it…

[@jamaldeemer]

On the idea that the character acted too irrationally with the rules, as I was watching, especially after the first 30 min, I really thought the main theme was about drug addiction. From that perspective it makes total sense that she would act irrationally and sabotage her older self so badly. The idea of "balance" kept coming up and it reminded me of the balancing act of maintaining a drug addiction along with normal life, which can also feel like you're two separate people, although just like the movie, the balance is practically impossible to maintain and the damage still affects the sober "self" because you are one. I mostly hear people discussing self-image / aging / hollywood / etc which are definitely also major themes, but if you think of Sue's young and exciting life as an addictive drug, the irrationality of it all makes a lot more sense I think, because people really do give in to the thing that will make them feel better in the moment and end up paying the price, it’s an inherently irrational thing.

[@lostinthereel]

I'm about to see this tonight. Bummed you didn't love it... I am not the biggest fan of body horror, so I'm a bit worried now. But, we shall see 😅 Great review, as always, Cyn ❤

[@CynsCorner]

Thank you, Shawn! I don't know when your review for this is coming out, but I do believe I am in the minority on how I feel about this film. Most of my buddies have enjoyed it a lot. I wish I could have, but it just didn't work for me and I did not expect that! 😔

[@LisaLoves]

Interesting to hear your points Cyn. It was maybe a tad long but I did really enjoy it. It made me want to hit a gym in the extreme though 😂

Same 😂

[@LatinoSlant]

Good review, its one-of not my top film of the year however its not for everyone.

[@CynsCorner]

Definitely not for everyone! I appreciate the effort of the filmmakers and wish I could have liked it more. I do think I am in the minority on this, as most of my fellow KZbin movie critics seem to fully enjoy it.

[@ypey1]

I was thinking “requiem for a dream” all the time, editing wise, although that movie is better

[@thomaslikesmusic]

I loved it. Your analysis is still solid and worth hearing. I think it knew when it was being over-the-top -- which, in the exaggerated Hollywood of the film, meant ratcheting up even further into absurd, because the base level was already wacky. My personal interpretation is that it's basically all a nightmarish dream sequence, or a psychotic break. Maybe there are things that "really happened," but from the kick that sends Elisabeth flying, to the drumstick, to the ability of a person to exist with no prior documentation and become a massive celebrity... these are all intended to signal to us that it's a kind of nightmare. It also seems almost like a dare: okay, you've suspended your disbelief this far, let's see how far it will go, because that's how far these inhumane issues in Hollywood culture can go. Thank you for your video!

[@RSEFX]

Thanks for the very measured talk-thru of this film and your reactions to it. I know little about it otherwise, but have listened to another review that spoke very highly of it. In that review I was suspecting some problems with it from the bits and pieces that were being discussed that the reviewer seemed to gloss over.. Your review here confirms my suspicions. These are areas dealing with inconsistency , illogical behaviors and things done just for the effect of it, ie the kinds of things that simply kill my enjoyment of a film exhibiting those kind of sloppy things. The theme sounds interesting (I have had a long career in film so this aspect is a choice one!). I'm not sure this is my cup of tea as I find body horror mostly unnecessary, and it has little meaning to me (unless, to get across points about real world issues, like the horrors of was, of terrorism or the treatment of people, in certain situations (the concentration camps, abuse in realistic situations etc). Body horror and gore effects are very powerful tools and I just don't see the point of using them as part of general and escapist story-telling. Those kinds of sequences seem tired and so overused/abused as the big final thing directors might resort to to make sure their project gets a certain kind of buzz. Anyway, all rather long-winded on my part. I really enjoyed your talk and your care in going thru this film. You pointed out a number of intriguing things that are making me consider seeing it, in spite of the (seeming) body horror excesses. Thanks for your video.

[@hardcutreviews]

We... loved The Substance.

[@CynsCorner]

I am not surprised. I know I'm one of the few who didn't take to this one. Did not expect that!

[@hardcutreviews]

@@CynsCorner It’s definitely an overload of the gratuitous. But it was entertaining as hell.

[@eyeswidevideo]

It's way too repetitive to be over two hours long. Requiem for a Dream, a similar movie, is 38 minutes shorter.

[@masudashizue777]

Good, honest review. I certainly would still want to see the film in spite of its length. When a film overstays its visit, that is a major flaw, though.

[@Menstral]

Good review, I accepted the fantastical, but several tweaks would have made it better. Why would Demi be so sad & lethargic.

[@astriddececco3005]

I respect your opinion; not everything will land with everyonel.

[@RSEFX]

Hmmm, there seem to be some locations that explore this whole "liminal spaces" motif. THAT is the kind of visual approach that is strangely appealing, more so if it is tied into the themes and mood.

[@jeannelively]

YOU ARE A NICE PERSON BUT I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY THAT IT IS DISTRACTING AND ANNOYING THAT YOU ARE LOOKING UP SIDEWAYS TO THE CAMERA . IT IS AWKWARD FOR THE LISTENER AND SEEMINGLY FOR YOU. IT TAKES AWAY FROM WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY AND I WOULD LIKE TO HEAR WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY BECAUSE YOUR THOUGHTS ARE INTERESTING AND PERCEPTIVE BUT I MISS OUT ON THEM BECAUSE OF THIS ATTEMPTED GIMMICK TO CREATE A "DIFFERENT" SLANT ON PRESENTATION. OBVIOUSLY I AM NEUROTIC AND PROBABLY WRONG BUT I SAY THIS ANYWAY. I STILL LIKE YOU HOWEVER.

[@CynsCorner]

Appreciate your input, but it's not a gimmick or an attempt to create a "different" slant on my presentation. It's just the setup that works out best for my work desk (as I've explained before in other videos - usually livestream discussions). Also, it doesn't feel awkward for me at all to look sideways at the camera for the same reason already mentioned. And because my notes are in front of me on a second monitor right above my laptop, which makes it easier for me to reference while I'm giving my review. Since my reviews are not scripted, and I don't read from a teleprompter, this is another reason the setup works best for my situation. But I do appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts.

[@BrianSalazar-kn5ng]

I already like your candor, just subbed. Next I will check out your take on “Am I a racist”.

[@jaymanuel3396]

I enjoyed the performances by Moore and Qualley. Enjoyed the movie up until the end. I agree, how did this character get through the upscale high end apartment complex, make it to the studio and onto the stage, without being detected by security? I didn’t hate it, but it wore out its welcome after about an hour 45 minutes in. I didn’t like that the men were so wicked, and got no comeuppance. What happened to the annoying neighbor anyway? I will definitely buy it when available, it definitely needs to be viewed more than once. But at least at home, I can pause, LOL.

[@TaraSoriano]

I think the movie was awesome. One of my favorites this year, it was supposed to be camp.

[@jackwilliamson1929]

Yeah to long, didn't like the "comedy" could have been great if it had kept a serious tone throughout. It felt like the third act was an apology for the serious overtones and hideous fight between her old and younger selves. But it was inventive and certainly will get a sequel if not a whole,"Substance" universe constructed around it. Oh that black dragon robe was fabulous.

[@marionmarino1616]

A few viewers have mentioned the length of the movie. I didn’t notice it. The sewing scene I thought was particularly rough. Don’t try too hard for realism. Real is not part of the story.

[@cjlaity1]

You took this movie way too seriously. While you were rolling your eyes, I was rolling on the floor laughing.

[@the_CineCita]

nah, i think she got it right. it was funny, sure, but it really outstayed it's welcome, and by the end just became silly. i've heard people say a movie went off the rails, this one went off the rails AND jumped the shark, all in one fell swoop.

[@cjlaity1]

​@@the_CineCita -- lol you are surprised that a movie about your younger self popping out of your spine was silly? It did outstay it's welcome for a little bit but that was the point. People who mutilate their bodies in an effort to stay young often don't stop until they are completely destroyed. It's like an addiction. Just look at the life of Pete Burns, lead singer of the 90s pop band Dead or Alive.

[@CanItAlready]

​​@@cjlaity1Jocelyn Wildenstein is another example of not knowing when to stop. And then there's Joan Rivers and Donda West...

[@CynsCorner]

The movie took itself seriously. Until, at the end, it didn't. The contrast in tones didn't mix well, and the entire film went off the rails for me at the end.

[@cjlaity1]

@@CynsCorner -- I beg to differ. The movie never took itself seriously. The only serious character in the entire film was Demi Moore. Everyone and everything else was a caricature, practically a cartoon character. From Dennis Quaid's Harvey to the slimy next door neighbor, even Sue herself. What you are objecting to is the entire final chapter called Monstro ElizaSue. This movie would not be the same without that climax of extremes. I wonder what ending you would have preferred.

[@the_CineCita]

i could not agree more. i love body horror, but this movie went so far off the rails in the 3rd act, i rolled my eyes thru the last 1/4th of the movie. i told a friend it's like watching a car race, and just before the car is about to win the race, they start doing donuts, and total the car, not even coming in last. and honestly much of the body horror we've seen before-- the fly, basketcase, etc. it's been a while since i left a movie angry. i wanted to love it. it had so much potential... and burned it all to the ground. sub'd. looking forward to more of your reviews.

[@creationzikaz4836]

Yeah, it dragged on at the end. Movie would've been better if it had ended 30 min before.

[@scottfw1193]

Great take.

[@LittleMinx-k7i]

Not watched it yet. On my list though. I find it interesting you review a movie of a genre and style you do not like anyway! Each to their own I suppose! 🤔

[@sandorx4]

You saw the film in a cinema? You said that you walked out of there. I was sure you saw it at home since you checked your email. Never use your phone during a screening!

[@CynsCorner]

Yes, I was at a theater. With one other person.

[@brianmccallister1765]

I sense it’s way overhyped already, which generally means it’s going to be forgotten when the buzz settles.

[@notthistimenet]

Can't bring myself to watch such things as this, or Human Centipede.

[@TheSkyUnderTheSea69]

🍅🍅🍅

[@allhandsonsteamdeck1440]

Have you ever thought that maybe you didn't like the movie because you are jealous of Demi Moore? She's hotter than womwn half her age...

[@CynsCorner]

Obviously a measure of "hotness" is subjective, though I do agree she looks better than many younger women. But no. I was into it for the first half but then the storytelling went off the rails - too much for me to appreciate the product as a whole.

[@SuperMarioBrosIII]

@@CynsCorner She's 61 but portrays herself as 50 in this film LOL!

[@CynsCorner]

And? Not sure what you're getting at.

[@allhandsonsteamdeck1440]

@@CynsCorner I'm just saying you are a beautiful brunette as well I've only just found your channel but I'll sub but I always thought Demi Moore was a phenomenal actress and she hasn't had much work in a while and this was made for her and had a great moral to love yourself as you are already cause you are beautiful already that's what I was getting at I was just kinda joking about being jealous thanks for the reply

[@BrianSalazar-kn5ng]

The first negative review, interesting. To each their own.😊

[@CynsCorner]

Yeah, I fully realize I'm in the minority on this one. I wasn't expecting to feel this way about it. 😞

[@ding-go]

Oh brother, talk about eye rolls, your review is just silly. You continually attempt to make real world logical sense of a movie clearly set up as a metaphor for society's absurd beauty standards and the damage that women (and men) do to themselves. I hear people saying the ending was too long and went too far... without realizing that the director clearly wanted THE AUDIENCE TO FEEL the war that she having with herself and how that war (the wars that women have against themselves) OFTEN go waaay to far and become absurd. So congratulations, you've missed the point like so many have. She got you to feel uncomfortable and wish it all would stop. Hello?? 🤦‍♂️

[@CynsCorner]

You are mistaken and your accusation is just silly. The point was gotten. The execution of the point was the problem. And if - as you claim "so many" have missed the point, then the director failed at making it.

[@ding-go]

@@CynsCorner LOL, keep tellin yourself that 🤣🤣🤣

[@CynsCorner]

I don't have to. I already know it. You seem to be the one who isn't settled about something.

[@ding-go]

@@CynsCorner You're so settled about it, that's why you have to keep telling yourself you are 🤣🤣🤣🤣 face it, the movie flew right over your head and now you have this nitwit video to remind you while the vast majority of critics with functioning brains praise everything about the film. LOL!!!

[@sandorx4]

This is an extremely bad film. It had no business being at Cannes. I wish you would stop using plural pronouns when you refer to one person.

[@CynsCorner]

I didn't personally think it was extremely bad, but I definitely was not as enamored with it as some of my fellow movie critics here on KZbin were. I don't plan to stop referring to some characters that way; it's intentional - to avoid spoilers as to who I'm talking about.

[@sandorx4]

@@CynsCorner it sounds more PC than anything.

[@CynsCorner]

@@sandorx4 In my case, it has zero to do with PC. It's about avoiding spoilers.