Written and directed by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance was a huge hit with horror fans and is still going strong. Following its TIFF premiere, the film hit theaters in September 2024, becoming Mubi’s highest-grossing film. In addition to some fantastic body horror, it conveys a scathing message about the pressures women face from society as they get older.
The film follows Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), an older Hollywood actress who gets replaced as host of her long-running aerobics show. After a car accident, a chance encounter with a nurse leads her to The Substance program. The serum promises to restore Elisabeth’s youth, but there is a huge catch.
Although the younger version, Sue (Margaret Qualley), has a body separate from Elisabeth’s, they both share a consciousness. Only one can be active at a time, so they must switch every seven days. However, as Sue rises to fame as the new show host, she finds it increasingly difficult to change places with Elisabeth, which has disastrous results.
Whether you missed the first theatrical release or want to see it again, The Substance will be back in U.S. theaters next week. Starting January 17th, it will be available in over 350 locations. Check with your local cinemas to see if it’s playing.
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The re-release comes after Demi Moore won Best Actress in a Motion Picture—Musical or Comedy at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, where the film received five nominations. This is the actress’s first Golden Globe win. She is also up for the 31st Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role. The Substance was also nominated for Best Makeup and Hairstyling at the 97th Academy Awards, which premieres in March.
For those who prefer to watch at home, the film is available on Mubi with a subscription and on VOD.
