In early November, The Substance (Vietnamese Title: Thần Dược), a hot film that has been buzzing on social media recently, will officially hit the theaters in Vietnam, coinciding with this year’s Halloween. From the moment it premiered, the film quickly became a phenomenon in the horror genre, exploring body horror themes within the supernatural horror context, at a time when Hollywood is experiencing a psychological crisis.
The Substance follows the story of Elizabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a former star struggling to maintain her fading stardom. The golden age has passed, and with a declining career, Elizabeth is forced to transition into a mentor for a young talent on a reality show. At nearly 55 years old, her physique resembles that of a younger woman, but appearances can be deceiving. To avoid succumbing to old age, she seeks a miraculous elixir rumored to have the potential to “reverse aging” overnight.
The “miraculous elixir” in question helps her maintain a youthful appearance, but it comes at a cost: two bodies cannot coexist while sharing the same life force, forcing them to “take turns breathing.” From there, a series of bloody events begins, plunging Elizabeth into a state of “desperate survival.”
Upon its screening at the Cannes Film Festival 2024, the horror masterpiece received a standing ovation from the audience, lasting a remarkable 13 minutes. Notably, the film also won the prestigious Best Screenplay award. Many critics praised the film’s deep thematic content and unique approach to the horror genre. The film’s color palette, rich in dark purple hues, captures the essence of the film while reflecting the nostalgia of a once-glorious Hollywood era.
Demi Moore’s performance is nothing short of breathtaking. With over 40 years in the industry, the “goddess” from the U.S. delivers an incredibly compelling portrayal, shedding light on the struggles faced by aging actresses in a society that often idolizes youth. At over 65, she showcases a confidence that defies the stereotypes surrounding older women.
Margaret Qualley also shines in her role, portraying a confident and stunning character who brings a distinct flair to the screen. Her performance stands out, successfully navigating the complex dynamics between the two leads.
On the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, The Substance boasts an impressive score of 8.4/10, a remarkable achievement for a horror film, especially within the body horror sub-genre which often receives lower ratings. On Metacritic, the film achieved a score of 83/100.
One user shared their thoughts: The Substance delivers a visually stunning experience that boldly challenges the perceptions of the horror genre. The cast performs exceptionally well, breaking down barriers in an industry that has long been overshadowed by youth-centric narratives. Another comment noted: “The Substance is a vivid exploration of the intangible pressures we face in an aging society, where beauty and recognition become fleeting. The film’s unsettling themes reflect the harsh realities of aging, making it a must-see for anyone.â€
