Demi Moore recently starred in a new movie calledThe Substance, and after watching this sci-fi film, audiences should consider watching its predecessor from 2018.The Substance,which premiered on September 18, isa horror sci-fi moviefollowing Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, a famous aerobics instructor who is unexpectedly fired. Devastated and with few options, she turns to a laboratory, which offers her the chance to become young again.The Substancecurrently has an 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics calling it a shocking body horror masterpiece.
Along with Demi Moore,The Substancecastincludes Margaret Qualley and Dennis Quaid. Furthermore, the movie was written and directed by Coralie Fargeat. Fargeat is a French filmmaker, andThe Substanceis her second feature film. Critics' horrified and delighted reactions toThe Substanceshould not be all that surprising, asFargeat has named David Cronenberg and John Carpenter as two of her big cinematic influences. However,The Substanceisn’t the only great movie Fargeat has been at the helm of. Audiences should definitely consider checking out her debut film,Revenge.
The Substance Is Coralie Fargeat’s First Movie Since 2018’s Revenge
How The Substance & Revenge Compare
Before Coralie Fargeat directed2024’sThe Substance,she wrote and directed the French action film,Revenge.Released in 2018,Revengeearned an impressive 93% on Rotten Tomatoes.Critics were astounded by how Fargeat subverted expectationsin the genre and added a fresh and exciting feminist lens. Not only did the plot go in expected places, but even the main character was portrayed in a way that was unexpected for a movie about female revenge. Ultimately,Revengemoved and excited those who watched it.
WhereThe Substancehas more of a dystopic feel,Revengeis completely rooted in real life.
In this way,RevengeandThe Substanceare quite similar. In both movies,Fargeat isn’t afraid to throw audiences into blood and guts or uncomfortable situations. Furthermore, both movies are concerned with feminist ideas and problems such as ageism, sexism, violence against women, and public image. However, the movies also diverge in a lot of ways. WhereThe Substancehas more of a dystopic feel,Revengeis completely rooted in real life. Additionally, the violence in each movie is targeted in a different way. WhereRevengefeels like a more personal portrait of aggression,The Substanceis more abstract.
Revenge Is A Must Watch After The Substance: What It’s About
Revenge May Not Be For Everyone
After watchingThe Substance,audiences should check out Coralie Fargeat’sRevenge.In terms of plot,Revengetells the story of Jen, a beautiful young woman who begins an affairwith a wealthy married man on vacation. However, their relationship goes awry when the man’s friends show up and Jen is sexually assaulted. The situation escalates, and Jen is essentially left for dead. With what little life remains left in her, Jen seeks out the men to get her revenge.
The Substance Ending Explained
The ending of The Substance underscores the themes of the film and highlights the dangerous double standard that exists in Hollywood.
Notably,Revengeand evenThe Substancemay not be for all viewers. Both movies contain trigger warnings that are important for viewers to check out before watching. However, those who love gore and violence in movies will most definitely be into these films. More than that, they may find a new love for French filmmaker, Coralie Fargeat.The Substancemay be just one of many amazing new movies from the director.
The Substance
Cast
Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading celebrity, turns to a mysterious drug that promises to restore her youth by creating a younger, more beautiful version of herself. But splitting time between her original and new body leads to horrifying consequences as her alternate self, Sue, begins to unravel her life in a disturbing body-horror descent.
