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Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Focus Today UK

Top Small Screen Picks: Seven Essential Movies In the Days Ahead

Top Selection

The Substance Film

The filmmaker's daring satire addresses the demanding standards for women's appearance along with the dreaded aspects of advancing years. Demi Moore delivers an inspired performance in the role of Elisabeth, a 50-year-old actress demoted to presenting an aerobics show on television. Forced aside by her unscrupulous employer Harvey, played by Dennis Quaid, she seeks out a secretive and terrifying treatment titled the Substance. This creates a younger clone named Sue, culminating in a steadily more parasitic dynamic between them. October 17th, Paramount+


This Mystery Thriller

This suspenseful thriller includes the talented actress in the role of Laura, a skilled journalist who decides to take some time off from writing about international wars to embark on a high-end voyage accompanied by a gravely sick Scandinavian billionaire and charitable figure, her spouse, and other filthy rich passengers. Yet once a mysterious woman goes overboard one night and the entire crew denies she ever existed, the reporter's sleuthing skills kick in. Out now, Netflix


This Supernatural Story

Soderbergh tests his directorial skills through this clever supernatural story captured wholly from the perspective of the phantom. After a clan featuring mother Rebekah and troubled teenage daughter Chloe settles into their new suburban house, the camera – representing the ghost – shadows their actions. The daughter appears aware of the supernatural presence, and it seems defensive toward her. Yet what is the reason? It's a fun idea that doesn't outstay its welcome, featuring a surprise that may be unexpected. Saturday 11 October, afternoon and evening times, Sky Cinema


This Self-Referential Film

Nicolas Cage fully commits to his cult stardom through this self-referential adventure. He portrays an egotistical Hollywood actor playing himself who takes on a $1m payday to visit a festive event at a Mediterranean location for the rich Javi, played by Pedro Pascal. Contacted by government spies to investigate the suspected cartel boss, his unconventional method comes in handy. This Saturday, evening, Channel 4


The Black Phone Horror

The director's contained scarefest holds up well even without a continuation. Taking place in 1970s Colorado, multiple child abductions has made the local kids anxious. After Finney is kidnapped by “the Grabber” and locked up in a basement, he dreads a terrible outcome. But the non-functional line mounted nearby keeps ringing, with ghostly voices providing assistance, while the prophetic visions of Gwen, his sister might rescue him. A genuinely scary movie. This Saturday, late evening, the Film4 channel


This Dramatic Portrait

In the conflict between God and Mammon, it's a knockout win for greed in Showalter's brilliantly over-the-top biopic regarding the shamed religious broadcaster and her felon spouse. Garfield acts as the corrupt Bakker, who proclaims at the beginning, claiming divine approval for wealth. He and Tammy Faye set about profiting from the nation's religious faith. It's a spectacle of tacky decor, overdone appearance and insincerity, however the lead actress manages to present Tammy Faye with compassion. Tuesday 14 October, 1.15am, the Film4 channel


Black Bag

This period's another release from the filmmaker presents a spy mystery as tight as the polo necks worn by Fassbender's UK spy. He is tasked to discover a double agent within their ranks from a group of five – one of whom is his own wife. Each performer are masters of calm composure, resulting in an engaging mental battle of deception or honesty unfolds. Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, Naomie Harris and Marisa Abela take part the clever spy entertainment. This Friday, various showings, Sky Cinema Premiere

About the author

Alan Crosby

Award-winning journalist with over 15 years of experience covering international affairs and political developments across Europe.

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