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 is generating significant awards buzz, including five Oscar nominations. Starring Oscar-nominees Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, IGN gave 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 is currently streaming exclusively on Mubi, a subscription-based service offering a seven-day free trial. For those preferring 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. Details on other physical releases can be found in our comprehensive guide to upcoming Blu-rays.
Plot Summary: What is The Substance About?
The Substance, written and directed by Coralie Fargeat, is a satirical body horror-thriller. Mubi's official synopsis: "Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a former A-lister past her prime, is drawn to a mysterious new drug. One injection transforms her – temporarily – into the gorgeous, twentysomething Sue (Margaret Qualley). The catch? They must share their lives, one week in each body. No exceptions."
Cast and Crew
- Director/Writer: Coralie Fargeat
- Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle
- Margaret Qualley as Sue
- Dennis Quaid as Harvey
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 movie news and reviews, explore IGN's coverage of the biggest films of 2024.
