The highly anticipated body horror film, The Substance 2024, is set to captivate audiences with its unique premise, star-studded cast, and chilling narrative. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, best known for her 2017 thriller Revenge, this movie combines sci-fi elements with grotesque body horror, exploring themes of beauty, age, and the dangerous allure of perfection.
Release Date
Mark your calendars! The Substance will be released in select theaters across the United States on September 20, 2024. The film already garnered attention at its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024, where it received widespread acclaim.
Plot Overview
In The Substance, we follow Elisabeth Sparkle, played by Demi Moore, a former A-list fitness celebrity who is unceremoniously fired on her 50th birthday. Desperate to reclaim her youthful image and career, Elisabeth is introduced to a mysterious black-market drug known as “The Substance.” This drug promises to create a younger and more beautiful version of herself with one critical condition: The two versions of Elisabeth must alternate weeks, sharing the same body. As you might guess, things take a dark turn when the balance is disrupted.
Cast and Characters
The cast of The Substance boasts a stellar lineup of talent:
- Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, the lead character whose desperation drives the narrative.
- Margaret Qualley as Sue, a significant figure whose relationship with Elisabeth is central to the story.
- Dennis Quaid plays Harvey, Elisabeth’s boss, who sets the events in motion by firing her.
- Supporting cast members include Hugo Diego Garcia, Joseph Balderrama, and Gore Abrams, all adding depth to this twisted tale.
Where to Watch The Substance Online
After its theatrical release, The Substance will eventually make its way to MUBI, the curated streaming platform specializing in world cinema. However, streaming won’t be available until early 2025, following a standard Video-On-Demand (VOD) release.
Trailer
The official trailer for The Substance was released in July 2024, offering a glimpse into the body horror elements and psychological intensity of the film. You can watch the trailer on platforms like YouTube or MUBI’s official site.
Critical Reception
Early reviews from the Cannes Film Festival praise The Substance for its audacity and compelling performances, particularly Moore’s return to a leading role. Critics have lauded the film for its combination of body horror and dark satire. On Rotten Tomatoes, it currently holds a strong 90% “Fresh” rating, with praise for its shocking yet clever narrative.
Key Takeaways
- Release Date: September 20, 2024, in select theaters.
- Stars: Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid.
- Plot: A woman takes a black-market drug that creates a younger version of herself, leading to dangerous consequences.
- Streaming: Available on MUBI by early 2025.
FAQs
1. What is the release date for The Substance?
The Substance will be released in US theaters on September 20, 2024.
2. Who stars in The Substance?
The film stars Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.
3. What is the plot of The Substance?
The Substance revolves around a fading celebrity who uses a mysterious drug to create a younger version of herself, with dire consequences when the balance is disrupted.
4. Where can I watch The Substance online?
After its theatrical run, the film will be available to stream on MUBI in early 2025.
5. Is there a trailer for The Substance?
Yes, the trailer was released in July 2024, and it can be viewed on MUBI’s official site and YouTube.
6. Is The Substance a good movie?
Yes, The Substance has received positive reviews, especially after its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. Critics praised its bold narrative, Demi Moore’s compelling performance, and Coralie Fargeat’s direction. With a 90% “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it has been hailed as a clever, audacious body horror film.