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, has arrived in US theaters and subsequently received five Oscar nominations. Starring Oscar-nominees Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, IGN awarded the film an 8/10, 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 streams exclusively on Mubi, offering a seven-day free trial. Alternatively, rent or buy it digitally via Prime Video, Apple TV+, and other major platforms.
AnswerSee ResultsPhysical Media Release: The Substance on Blu-ray
A 4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital version is available, featuring Demi Moore's acclaimed performance as Elisabeth Sparkle, a former celebrity grappling with a mysterious new drug.
Synopsis and Cast
The Substance is a satirical body horror-thriller directed by Coralie Fargeat. The official synopsis: Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a fading star, is drawn to a new drug offering temporary rejuvenation as the younger Sue (Margaret Qualley). The catch? She must alternate between her two lives, week by week.
- Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle
- Margaret Qualley as Sue
- Dennis Quaid as Harvey
Rating and Runtime
Rated R for strong bloody violence, gore, graphic nudity, and language. Runtime: 2 hours, 20 minutes. No post-credits scene.
For more movie news and reviews, check out IGN's coverage of the biggest films of 2024.