Episode 82 on The Substance

Summary In this episode, Michael and Dave dive into The Substance, a film by Coralie Fargeat. The film explores the dark and gritty side of Hollywood’s obsession with youth, following Elizabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a former aerobic star who turns to a mysterious serum for a youthful transformation. This risky choice leads her into a twisted psychological battle with her younger self, Sue (Margaret Qualley), as the two are forced to switch bodies every seven days.

Key Discussion Points

• Plot Overview: The film’s exploration of ageism, Hollywood’s beauty standards, and the battle between youthful ambition and the wisdom of age.
• Director’s Style: Coral Le Far’s cinematic techniques, reminiscent of her previous work in Revenge, and visual callbacks to classic horror films like The Shining and The Fly.
• Cinematography and Sound Design: Praise for cinematographer Benjamin Krakun and sound designer Emmanuel’s Yard, creating a contrast between Hollywood’s bright artificiality and the film’s dark themes.
• Practical Effects: Emphasis on the effective use of prosthetics and 1980s-inspired effects over CGI, with comparisons to movies like The Thing and Requiem for a Dream.

Memorable Moments

• Shrimp Scene: The “disgusting” and metaphorical close-up of Dennis Quaid’s character devouring shrimp, symbolizing Hollywood’s consumption of aging stars.
• Body Horror: Discussions on the intense practical effects, leading to some wince-inducing moments that play with medical horror aesthetics.
• Themes of Identity and Self-Worth: The hosts analyze how the film examines the lengths people go to in order to stay relevant and young, questioning the true “value” of beauty and fame.

Ratings and Final Thoughts

• Michael gives the film four stars, highlighting its timely commentary on youth obsession, while Dave awards it five stars, calling it one of the best films of the year. Both agree on the standout performances by Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, predicting Oscar buzz.

Cultural Commentary The hosts reflect on Hollywood’s commodification of beauty and youth, pointing out how the film exposes the industry’s relentless pursuit of “perfection” and the unrealistic standards imposed on women.

Looking Forward Next episode, Michael and Dave consider reviewing Heretic, an A24 horror film, or exploring other films relevant to award season buzz.

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• Introduction to The Substance 00:00:15 – Michael welcomes listeners and introduces the movie The Substance.

• Plot Summary & Themes 00:00:42 – Dave gives a brief overview of the film’s plot, focusing on Elizabeth Sparkle’s battle with her younger self, Sue. 00:02:17 – Michael and Dave discuss the film’s themes of ageism, youth obsession, and identity in Hollywood.

• Director and Cinematography

00:03:01 – Discussion of Coral Le Far’s style, including her previous work on Revenge and the “revenge movie” genre. 00:04:09 – Michael describes the vibrant color palette and camera work, including hallway shots reminiscent of The Shining.

• Shrimp Scene & Sound Design 00:05:34 – Michael and Dave analyze the infamous “shrimp scene” with Dennis Quaid’s character, highlighting the film’s sound design. 00:07:06 – Praise for Emmanuel’s Yard’s work on the sound effects, enhancing the visceral experience.

• Practical Effects and Body Horror 00:09:07 – Dave discusses the impressive practical effects, comparing them to The Thing and emphasizing the grotesque elements that made even seasoned horror fans look away.

• Discussion on Hollywood and Beauty Standards

00:13:38 – Michael and Dave explore the film’s commentary on Hollywood’s treatment of aging women and the pressures of beauty standards.

• Performances by Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley 00:14:22 – The hosts delve into the powerful performances, especially Demi Moore’s nuanced portrayal of Elizabeth, and Margaret Qualley’s rising-star status.

• Film References & Influences 00:50:38 – The hosts compare The Substance to other films like The Elephant Man, Frankenstein, The Fly, and Carrie, discussing how these influences shape the film’s narrative and aesthetic.

• Ratings and Spoiler-Free Reviews

00:17:09 – Michael and Dave each give their spoiler-free ratings, with Michael awarding four stars and Dave giving it five.

• Third-Act Discussion & Moral Takeaways 00:46:18 – Spoiler discussion on the third act, where the hosts interpret the film’s moral stance on aging, beauty, and acceptance.

• Closing and Next Episode Preview 00:57:04 – Dave previews potential films for the next episode, including Heretic, an A24 horror movie, as well as Rumors, a film featuring Tilda Swinton.