The Substance (2024)

FIRST 33:00: Spoiler-Free Review with our See It/Skip It Verdict
AFTER 33:00: Full Spoiler Review

This week's See It or Skip It has us exploring this year's Oscar field a little deeper by diving into the mind-bending The Substance (2024), now playing on MUBI (in the US/UK). Directed by Coralie Fargeat and starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid, this psychological body horror promises to push boundaries and challenge audiences with its bold, unsettling vision.

Join Ian and Shai as we step into the eerie world of The Substance to see if it delivers a chilling, thought-provoking experience or if it crumbles under the weight of its ambition. Does it bring a fresh perspective to horror while exploring deeper themes, or does it lean too heavily on shock value without enough... substance?

We’ll examine the film’s storytelling—What larger themes and ideologies does this lean into or is it just a straight up horror film? How does Demi Moore’s performance anchor the film, and does she reinvent herself in this daring role? And how does Margaret Qualley complement or contrast her, adding to the film’s psychological intensity?  And do you know whose kid she is?  Ian couldn't believe it.

We’ll also break down the film’s striking visuals and grotesque horror elements.  Did the film’s themes of identity and transformation resonate, or did they get lost in the chaos? And how does the film’s score heighten the unsettling atmosphere?  And how was this film snubbed in the cinematography category? Shai couldn't believe it.

Finally, we’ll debate whether The Substance can overcome some questions in its own internal logic. Does it deliver a profound, lasting impact, or does it leave you more confused than captivated? 

We’ll tackle all these questions as we dissect the movie and tell you if we think you should SEE IT or SKIP IT!