The Substance: A Haunting Dive into Beauty, Power, and Body Horror
With its Cannes buzz, five Oscar nominations, and a premise suggesting a psychological thriller, The Substance seemed like it would be a stylish, thought-provoking film. However, I wasn’t prepared for a full-on body horror experience—filled with shocking transformations that were both disturbing and meaningful. Over 140 minutes, Coralie Fargeat, director of Revenge, delivers a film that starts as one thing and morphs into something far more intense, leaving an impact that’s hard to shake.
The film follows Elizabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a former Hollywood star cast aside by her producer (Dennis Quaid) due to her age. Desperate to regain her youth and relevance, she turns to a mysterious drug called The Substance, which creates a younger, idealized version of herself. This new version, now calling herself Sue (Margaret Qualley), quickly develops a mind of her own. As the two battle for control, the film takes a grotesque turn, exploring the brutal cost of beauty and Hollywood’s obsession with youth.
Demi Moore’s transformation in this film emphasizes why she received an Oscar nomination, as she infuses Elizabeth with vulnerability and intensity, particularly in scenes where she realizes her worth in the industry is tied solely to her appearance. Margaret Qualley, on the other hand, brings a chilling, almost predatory energy to Sue, making the dynamic between the two women both tense and combative. Dennis Quaid’s portrayal of Harvey, the sleazy producer, adds another layer of authenticity—his character is a representation of the worst industry figures exposed in recent years.
Fargeat’s cinematography shifts from cold and sterile to nightmarish as the film progresses. The early scenes feature a clinical, corporate aesthetic, resembling low-budget training videos. But once The Substance takes effect, the horror intensifies into technicolor. The level of gore will excite horror fans—unapologetically excessive, it uses gallons of fake blood to create some of the most shocking sequences, rivaling Carrie’s infamous prom scene.
The Substance seamlessly blends drama, horror, and dark comedy. Moore is perfectly cast—her own career's ups and downs make Elizabeth’s struggle feel real, as she understands what it’s like to go from a box office sensation to fading from public view. Though she remains a timeless beauty, her portrayal of a woman clinging to youth resonates deeply in an era fixated on Botox and Ozempic.
While it may not be for everyone—its graphic imagery and intense themes make it a difficult watch—Fargeat doesn’t hold back. The film offers a thought-provoking critique of society’s obsession with perfection, exposing the extreme lengths people go to in preserving youth, identity, and status. In a world dominated by selfies and influencers chasing Instagram likes, its message feels more relevant than ever. Though some moments may feel exaggerated, they serve as a stark reflection of our reality. Love it or hate it, The Substance leaves a lasting impression—how far would you go to stay young and beautiful?