The Substance has certainly stirred up a storm. With a mountain of awards, including an Oscar, and a solid critical reception, it’s hard to ignore. But does it live up to the hype? I dove into this highly acclaimed film and am ready to share my honest take, even if it ruffles a few feathers.
Demi Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle, a celebrity aerobics show host. Her age becomes a glaring issue when she gets the boot on her 50th birthday. Desperate to recapture her youth, Elisabeth agrees to a shady experimental treatment. This risky decision leads to a bizarre and unsettling transformation. Her body splits, and a “younger, more perfect” version emerges, played by Margaret Qualley.
The film’s exploration of beauty standards and society’s relentless pursuit of youth is undeniably powerful. It hits a nerve, tapping into the insecurities many women face. The pressure to stay young and beautiful is a real and pervasive issue, creating a $600 billion industry annually. The film does a great job of showing the lengths some people will go to in order to achieve those impossible standards.
However, I found the film’s use of nudity excessive. While I understand the intent—to highlight the objectification of women—it often felt gratuitous. It was almost constant, and it didn’t always serve the story. There’s a difference between using nudity to make a point and simply throwing it in for shock value. I felt like the film crossed that line.
Beyond the nudity, some of the characters’ actions felt unbelievable. The idea that someone would leave their “other half” completely vulnerable and naked, lying on the bathroom floor for extended periods seemed unrealistic. It felt like a plot device that didn’t quite land.
The body horror elements, particularly towards the end, were undeniably impressive. The makeup and special effects were top-notch. The cinematography was also a standout, creating a visually rich and engaging experience, even during the most grotesque scenes.
My main criticism lies with the pacing. The film spends much time lingering on the women’s bodies, which could have been used to develop the story and characters further. I wanted more depth and more reasons to connect with Elisabeth and her “better” self.
Moore and Qualley delivered strong performances. Though seemingly a stereotypical Hollywood sleazeball, Dennis Quaid’s character symbolized the industry and society’s obsession with superficiality.
In conclusion, The Substance tackles a relevant and important theme. It features strong performances and impressive visuals. However, the excessive nudity and uneven pacing detracted from my overall enjoyment. It’s a film that will undoubtedly spark conversation, and it’s worth watching for its unique approach to body horror and social commentary. Just be prepared for a visually intense and sometimes uncomfortable experience. Watch it now on Prime Video, Mubi, and Fandango at Home.
