'The Substance' review: A shocking body horror masterpiece
Courtesy of Mubi
Coralie Fargeat's “The Substance” is an insane, grotesque triumph and arguably the best body horror film of the century. With unflinching subtext, Fargeat delivers a brutal, outrageous, and bloody allegory that explores the daily turmoil women face regarding their appearance and societal expectations. Featuring remarkable performances from Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, this film is a wild ride. If the Academy had its finger on the pulse, both actresses would earn nominations, and the film would contend for a coveted Best Picture slot. For now, Fargeat can take solace in having crafted a groundbreaking experience reminiscent of “The Fly.”
Moore delivers a performance for the ages as Elisabeth Sparkle, a once-celebrated actress whose star is fading. Confronted with her diminishing relevance, Elisabeth is let go from her cushy TV workout show by the brash TV exec Harvey (played by Dennis Quaid, in what may be his most unhinged performance to date). At 61, Moore still exudes beauty and charisma, but within the cutthroat entertainment industry, her character's glory days are long gone.
Opportunity arrives in the form of a drug called The Substance, which promises to create a younger, better version of oneself. The treatment comes with strict rules that must be adhered to, foreshadowing a grim outcome. After injecting herself with “The Activator,” Elisabeth undergoes a brutal transformation, birthing a sexy, younger version of herself named Sue, portrayed stunningly by Margaret Qualley.
The rules dictate that the two bodies, though equal, must take turns existing each week—like co-parents sharing custody. This balance is a mantra that recurs throughout the film. However, the script raises some questions: while it’s implied that the two share a consciousness, Sue often engages in actions of which Elisabeth has no recollection. This inconsistency begs the question: why undergo the treatment at all?
Soon, Sue steps into Elisabeth’s morning show slot, rapidly ascending to superstardom. She enjoys a lavish lifestyle, basking in fame and adoration, with every man—especially Harvey and his sleazy executives—objectifying her. Fargeat doesn’t shy away from discomfort, using close-ups and a fish-eye lens to illustrate how powerful men often view women as mere objects for their desires. In stark contrast, during Elisabeth’s week, she retreats to her apartment, indulging in junk food and television, which frustrates Sue and disrupts their tenuous balance, leading to shocking revelations.
Fargeat strikes a tone of eerie dread and emotional vulnerability. Amid the visceral body horror that would make David Cronenberg blush, the film poignantly addresses the desire for acceptance in a social media age where perception is paramount. This is exemplified in a scene where Elisabeth prepares for a date, only to smear her lipstick and succumb to self-pity as she watches the clock tick away, with Sue lurking in the wings.
The film is filled with grotesque moments and impressive practical effects that blend seamlessly with visual effects. Without revealing too much, the final act is so utterly bonkers that my jaw was agape throughout, demonstrating Fargeat’s unapologetic boldness and uncompromising vision. While some narrative threads may not fully align, the film’s willingness to make audiences squirm easily overshadows these quibbles. “The Substance” is an unforgettable shock fest—both exhilarating and insane—that will haunt you long after the credits roll.
Grade: A
THE SUBSTANCE opens in theaters Friday, September 20th
Comments