The Substance: A Controversial Dive into Body Horror

A Polarizing Addition to 2024’s Horror Lineup The Substance is set to be one of the most divisive horror films of 2024. Some view it as a major misstep in filmmaking, while others have strong, conflicting opinions. WARNING: Minor spoilers ahead.

A Nostalgic Attempt Gone Wrong Horror films of the 1990s set high standards for scream-inducing cinema. With several chilling new releases this year, the anticipation for MUBI’s The Substance was high. The trailer hinted at a unique plot: Demi Moore’s character, pushed out of her job for age reasons, creates a younger version of herself through a mysterious substance. But does it deliver?

Disappointing Endings and Missed Opportunities Despite a wild final act reminiscent of Dario Argento’s Phenomena, The Substance fails to contribute anything fresh to the genre or feminist discourse. Stripped of its grotesque elements, the film’s basic concept feels outdated and ineffective.

A Gender Divide in Reactions The film has sparked intense debates. Men might find it a shocking masterpiece, while many women are less impressed. Conversations reveal a stark contrast in perceptions, with The Substance seeming to resonate differently across genders.

A Monologue, Not a Dialogue The film attempts to address women’s fears about aging and societal judgments but falls short. It’s a monologue that ignores the nuanced, modern understanding of these issues, resulting in a portrayal that feels disconnected from contemporary feminist concerns.

Unfulfilled Potential and Misguided Tropes Elizabeth’s character, played by Demi Moore, is reduced to a clichéd “hag” trope, undermining the film’s potential to explore deeper themes. The portrayal of aging and beauty seems regressive rather than progressive.

Hagploitation or Feminist Failure? The Substance has been criticized for embracing “hagploitation,” a concept that seems feminist on the surface but ultimately reinforces outdated views of women. The film’s approach to beauty and aging misses the mark, falling into problematic stereotypes.

A Questionable Directorial Vision Directed by Coralie Fargé, the film aims to offer a female perspective on women’s issues. However, it appears Fargé’s understanding of these issues is lacking, resulting in a film that feels out of touch with its intended message.

Demi Moore’s Disappointing Comeback While Demi Moore delivers a strong performance, her return is overshadowed by the film’s shortcomings. Moore deserves a better vehicle for her talents, as The Substance fails to provide the comeback she deserves.

Sue’s Character: A Missed Opportunity Margaret Qualley’s character, Sue, transforms Moore’s Elizabeth into a monstrous figure, but the portrayal feels like a clichéd villain from a bygone era. The character’s lack of depth detracts from the film’s impact.

Unresolved Questions and Flawed Plot The Substance leaves viewers with more questions than answers. The film’s inconsistencies and plot holes contribute to a frustrating experience, despite its striking visuals and soundtrack.

A Giallo-esque Finale and Unfulfilled Promise The film’s final 20 minutes are overly extended and lack the impactful horror expected. While there might be some underlying commentary on beauty standards, it’s overshadowed by the film’s failure to deliver a coherent message.

Final Verdict: A Disheartening Experience The Substance was anticipated to be a groundbreaking addition to body horror, but it instead feels like a relic of outdated discussions. With a disappointing execution, it fails to live up to its potential, leaving viewers frustrated and disillusioned.

The Substance hits theaters on September 20. For more horror content, check out the best serial killer documentaries, and the top horror films available for streaming.