Some films entertain, some shock, and then there are those that stay with you, leaving a lingering sense of unease. The Substance does just that. A gripping and thought-provoking experience, this film goes beyond traditional horror, using body horror to explore themes of identity, self-worth, and the dangers of perfection. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, the film showcases her style of blending psychological horror with striking visual storytelling.
At its core, The Substance is about personal transformation, both physical and psychological. The film raises unsettling questions about the fear of losing oneself and what happens when the desire for a “better” self turns into a nightmare. It critiques modern society’s obsession with beauty and perfection, using the protagonist’s transformation as an exaggerated metaphor for cosmetic procedures and self-improvement culture. The film also explores the idea of duality, using reflections, and shifting perspectives to highlight the gap between who we are and who we want to be. If the protagonist is female, the story could be seen as a sharp critique of the pressure placed on women to adhere to societal beauty standards and the terrifying consequences of that pressure.
The film’s visuals are a masterclass in psychological horror, with each shot carefully designed to build tension. Benjamin Kracun’s cinematography employs high-contrast lighting, creating deep shadows that reflect the protagonist’s internal struggle. The Substance makes excellent use of practical effects, crafted by prosthetic designer Pierre-Olivier Persin, over CGI, making the body horror feel more realistic and disturbing. Mirrors play a big role throughout the film, acting as windows into the protagonist’s fractured mind. Their reflections often appear warped, foreshadowing the psychological breakdown ahead.
The soundtrack builds tension with eerie, droning sounds, occasionally interrupted by sharp, jarring notes that enhance the horror. Silence is also used effectively, moments where all background noise fades, leaving only breathing or subtle distortions, heighten the sense of unease. As the protagonist changes, their voice subtly alters, becoming more detached from their original self.
The film unfolds at a slow, deliberate pace, pulling the audience into the protagonist’s growing paranoia and psychological unraveling. Coralie Fargeat’s screenplay mirrors the transformation, starting with a sense of control, then spiraling into complete chaos, making the descent into horror feel inevitable.
The lead character undergoes both a physical and emotional transformation, their initial desires twisting into something horrifying. The true horror isn’t just the external changes, it’s the willingness to go too far in the pursuit of reinvention. Demi Moore delivers a chilling performance, bringing depth and vulnerability to the protagonist. Friends, mentors, and rivals serve as reflections of what the protagonist could become, highlighting the dangers of obsession.
The Substance stands alongside films like David Cronenberg’s The Fly and Julia Ducournau’s French film Titane, redefining body horror as something deeply personal and psychologically complex. Instead of using transformation as something to escape, this film makes it feel inevitable. Its themes resonate with modern fears about identity, AI-enhanced beauty, and body autonomy.
The Substance is more than just a horror film, it’s a reflection of the pressures and insecurities that shape us. By mixing deep psychological themes with striking visuals and body horror, it forces viewers to confront their own fears about change and perfection. Coralie Fargeat’s direction, combined with Demi Moore’s intense performance, makes for an unforgettable cinematic experience. Films like The Substance are necessary because they push audiences to question societal norms, particularly in an age obsessed with aesthetics and personal reinvention. Horror has always been a mirror to our fears, and by tackling these themes through a visceral and unsettling narrative, the film opens up conversations about identity, self-worth, and the consequences of striving for perfection. These subjects are crucial to explore in cinema, as they challenge us to confront the realities of our world and the often-unspoken anxieties that come with it.
The Substance is not an easy watch, but it’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates films that challenge and disturb. Would you embrace the change, or fear it? That’s a question only The Substance can answer. The film is currently available to watch on MUBI.
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