Coralie Fargeat’s “The Substance” delivers a nightmarish yet captivating commentary on ageism, beauty standards, and the horror of self-image.
In its first two hours, The Substance is a sleek and intriguing film that balances sci-fi elements with biting social commentary. Writer-director Coralie Fargeat takes the viewer on a visceral journey into the dark corners of Hollywood’s obsession with youth, aging, and perfection while offering enough body horror to unsettle even the most seasoned moviegoers.
Fargeat’s exploration of ageism and sexism begins with the story of Elisabeth Sparkle, a celebrated aerobics instructor turned forgotten star, portrayed by the iconic Demi Moore. Sparkle, who once ruled the airwaves with her fitness show, is unceremoniously fired on her 50th birthday by a ruthless executive—played by Dennis Quaid, who perfectly embodies the sleazy and chauvinistic nature of Hollywood’s decision-makers.
Feeling discarded by an industry that once adored her, Sparkle’s desperation leads her to a dangerous decision. A handsome young nurse introduces her to a black-market drug that promises to transform her into a younger, more beautiful version of herself. Though she hesitates at first, Sparkle soon succumbs to the allure of regaining her youthful glory. The drug’s only rule is that Sparkle must switch bodies with her “better self”—played by the stunning Margaret Qualley—every seven days.
However, as Sparkle indulges in her rejuvenated form, the question arises: how much time can she steal from her younger self before the consequences become irreversible?
Fargeat, who won best screenplay at the Cannes Film Festival, has often spoken about her admiration for David Cronenberg’s body horror films, particularly The Fly. Fans of Cronenberg will undoubtedly see his influence throughout The Substance, especially in the grotesque yet mesmerizing body transformations that occur. However, Fargeat’s vision is distinct, deeply personal, and grounded in her own experiences with societal pressures regarding beauty and aging.
The film’s cinematography, masterfully executed by Benjamin Kracun, adds to the intensity. His use of low-angle shots and extreme close-ups mirrors the work of David Lynch, another filmmaker Fargeat has credited as an influence. The claustrophobic framing captures Sparkle’s anxiety and desperation, even in her rejuvenated form, creating a constant tension that persists throughout the film.
As The Substance ventures into its final act, the film shifts from a surreal, dread-laden sci-fi drama to a full-blown monster movie. The transformation is jarring, yet it feels inevitable as the narrative spirals further into absurdity and violence. The final moments of the movie are truly unforgettable, with a deranged yet poignant finale that leaves the viewer questioning who the real monster is—Sparkle, society, or both.
One of the film’s notable achievements is its ability to maintain suspense and intrigue for its entire 140-minute runtime. Fargeat steadily raises the stakes, delivering jaw-dropping moments that keep the audience on edge until the very last scene.
However, if there’s any criticism to be made, it’s the heavy-handedness of some of the satire. The portrayal of male characters as blatant misogynists is sometimes exaggerated, but this over-the-top approach adds a certain charm to the film’s dark humor.
The Substance has been described as part of the new wave of body horror films, joining the ranks of Julia Ducournau’s Titane and Cronenberg’s Crimes of the Future. However, it stands out by offering a uniquely feminist perspective on aging, beauty, and societal pressures. Fargeat’s fearless storytelling makes this film a standout in the genre, resisting the temptation to be just another body horror entry and instead offering something far more thought-provoking.
Rated R by the Motion Picture Association for graphic violence, gore, nudity, and language, The Substance is not for the faint of heart. But for those willing to take the plunge, it’s a brilliantly crafted, disturbing piece of cinema that is sure to be talked about long after the credits roll.
Rating: 3.5 out of 4 stars.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
