If you’re seeking a horror film that will leave you feeling unsettled, now is the perfect opportunity to experience The Substance in theaters.
The horror movie, set to captivate audiences in 2024, premiered this week and is currently showing in cinemas across the US and UK. Featuring performances by Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, this body horror film offers a satirical examination of the societal pressures associated with aging.
When a struggling celebrity facing a decline in her career turns to a mysterious “substance,” she enters a twisted battle for supremacy against her younger self.
As of now, the film holds an impressive 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics applauding its innovative and grotesque portrayal of body image. However, its extreme content has led some viewers to feel queasy during screenings.
“It was the most fun I’ve had in a movie theater in a really long time,” shared one viewer on Reddit. “Loving the horror this year. The monster effects were fantastic, and the body horror truly had me gagging at one point.”
Another viewer remarked, “I just saw The Substance and all I can say is wow. This is undoubtedly the best horror movie of the year and could be the best horror experience I’ve had in theaters. I can’t express how impactful this film was for me.”
One excited fan stated: “I f**king LOVED this movie. Many big horror releases garner attention with ‘you won’t believe this shocking moment!’ but The Substance delivers a two-hour experience packed with those moments. It’s unlike anything I’ve witnessed in a theater, both visually and acoustically.”
“My jaw was on the floor for the entire last act. Insane,” one viewer succinctly noted.
While many reviews highlight the film’s daring commentary, not everyone concurs with its delivery of the message.
In our own review of The Substance, we rated it one star, calling it “an outdated guide to misogyny in a conversation that we needed decades ago, not now.”
Regardless of whether you’re intrigued or turned off, The Substance is currently available for viewing in theaters.
For more spine-chilling experiences, explore the best 2024 horror films so far and see our thoughts on Terrifier 3 and Speak No Evil.
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