“Maybe evil lives in the skin. I don’t know.”
Bill Chrushank-Body Parts
The Substance is the kind of horror film that takes risks. Starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, this ambitious psychological horror dives headfirst into the surreal, offering up a unique blend of atmospheric dread, jaw-dropping practical effects, and a concept-heavy script that’s as ambitious as it is unsettling.
Demi Moore commands the screen with a powerful and haunting presence. She nails the complex role, bringing layers of depth and a gritty edge to her character, making her descent into terror feel authentic and intense. Margaret Qualley, on the other hand, brings her trademark subtlety and edge, playing her part with an unpredictability that keeps us hooked. The chemistry between Moore and Qualley is pure fire, grounding the film’s strange and chaotic narrative in a way that keeps it compelling.
What The Substance really nails is creativity. The practical effects alone are enough to draw you in; they’re visceral, disturbing, and refreshingly tangible. Instead of relying on CGI, director Coralie Fargeat leans into old-school, hands-on horror effects that make every strange, grotesque moment feel terrifyingly real. It’s an inspired choice that horror fans will appreciate, and it lends an eerie weight to the film that makes each scene hit harder. The script, too, is packed with fresh ideas, weaving themes and unsettling concepts that feel like they could only belong in a movie this weird and ambitious.
But The Substance isn’t without its downsides. The pacing can feel frustratingly uneven, with long stretches that slow things down just as the intensity should be ramping up. While the film’s layers of meaning are fascinating, at times, it gets bogged down in its own complexity. The story borders on overly convoluted, and you might find yourself struggling to make sense of its symbols and subtext instead of simply enjoying the ride. A part of me feels the film is somehow vapid and thoughtful at the same time.
The Substance is horror that refuses to play it safe. With killer performances from Moore and Qualley, bold, practical effects, and a narrative that challenges as much as it disturbs, it’s a must-watch for those who appreciate psychological horror that dares to go deep. Just be prepared to get a little lost in the madness—it’s all part of the ride.
Rating: 7.5/10
