Coralie Fargeat's darkly comedic body horror film, The Substance, which garnered a 13-minute standing ovation and the Best Screenplay award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, is now playing in US theaters and has received multiple award nominations, including five Oscars. Starring Oscar-nominees Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, IGN gave the film an 8/10 rating, describing it as a "sick, twisted, and squirm-inducing parable" criticizing celebrity culture's obsession with youth and beauty.
Streaming and Purchase Options for The Substance
The Substance is currently streaming exclusively on Mubi, a subscription-based service offering a seven-day free trial. For those who prefer not to subscribe, the film is also available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms, including Prime Video and Apple TV+.
AnswerSee ResultsPhysical Media Release: The Substance on Blu-ray
A 4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital version of The Substance is available, featuring Demi Moore's acclaimed performance as Elisabeth Sparkle.
Plot Summary: What is The Substance About?
The Substance, written and directed by Coralie Fargeat, is a satirical body horror thriller. Mubi's synopsis describes the story of Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a faded celebrity, who uses a mysterious new drug to temporarily transform into the younger Sue (Margaret Qualley). The catch? She must alternate between the two identities, week by week.
Cast and Crew
- Director/Writer: Coralie Fargeat
- Elisabeth Sparkle: Demi Moore
- Sue: Margaret Qualley
- Harvey: Dennis Quaid
Rating and Runtime
The Substance is rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, graphic nudity, and language. The film's runtime is 2 hours and 20 minutes, and it does not contain a post-credits scene. For more from IGN, check out our 2024 movie releases.
