The Substance (2024): A Gripping Body Horror Experience

This week’s film recommendation is The Substance (2024). To preface, this is not a film for the weak-stomached. This body horror thriller is a ride to remember from start to end. While the movie might initially strike viewers as gore for gore’s sake, after about ten minutes in the theater you’ll begin to recognize it as a means for the delivery of the film’s larger metaphor.

The Substance (2024)

The film follows Elisabeth, played by Demi Moore who, at fifty, is deemed geriatric by Harvey, a powerful producer played by Dennis Quaid. After an accident, she finds out about a seemingly magical substance that will allow her to circumvent the industry’s expectations for older women … but only every other week, and with extremely strict daily procedures. Her younger, more “beautiful” self is played by Margaret Qualley, who delivers a chilling performance as a willing sex-symbol and new sensation. As you watch Moore and Qualley juggle their days at the forefront, the film goes in a dark, and simultaneously expected yet unpredictable direction.

The Substance has many instances of nauseating and disturbing visuals. However, it’s not just the physical gore that may make viewers queasy, but also the conceptual and metaphorical horrors the film presents to its audience. This is an impressive second film from French director Coralie Fargeat and is a must-see, particularly in theaters. The audience reactions alone, along with visuals and sound, make The Substance not only a film, but a cinematic experience.